The New Jersey Mental Health Institute (NJMHI) launched the Leadership Academy for Behavioral Healthcare Professionals in October 2022 to present opportunities for aspiring leaders in the mental healthcare, substance use disorder (SUD) and intellectual/ developmental disabilities (I/DD) services fields to build the management skills that organizations and these fields need, as well as the foundation for them to advance in their careers and succeed in future leadership positions. 

Participation in this cost-effective, year-long program will also help improve staff retention, which will reinforce behavioral healthcare organizations' long-term viability, and improve the quality and consistency of services. These benefits are especially critical as the field has been experiencing a workforce crisis and the demand for services continues to increase. This program helps address the crisis by encouraging staff to continue working in the behavioral healthcare system — in positions that will enable them to further expand and strengthen agencies and the entire workforce while continuing their advancement in these fields.

The Leadership Academy is open to mentees and mentors who are working (and, in the case of some mentors, have worked) in any aspects of the behavioral healthcare field, including clinical, administrative, legal, finance, human resources and information technology. It is also open to coaches in other industries whose different expertise and experience add to the value of this program.

A recent graduate and her CEO share the tremendous value of this program!

“Participating in the Leadership Academy has been a rewarding experience. It provided a unique opportunity to enhance my leadership abilities while connecting with motivated and supportive colleagues through coaching and mentorship. The knowledge and skills gained throughout the program have been practical and relevant, positively influencing my work and growth. 

The experience deepened my understanding of what it means to lead with purpose and helped me recognize the strengths I bring to a team. “I’m grateful to have been part of this journey and appreciate the support and encouragement from everyone involved.” 

Melanie L. Bennett, BS, MSW, LCSW, CCS
2024-2025 Leadership Academy Mentee
Director of Intensive Outpatient Treatment & Support Services
Preferred Behavioral Health Group

“The NJMHI Leadership Academy for Behavioral Health Professionals has been a worthwhile investment for rising stars at Preferred Behavioral Health Group. It offers invaluable education, tools, and mentoring to help launch the careers of emerging leaders. There is no better retention tool than investing in your workforce.”

Tara A. Chalakani, PsyD, LPC, RN
Chief Executive Officer
Preferred Behavioral Health Group
NJMHI Board Member

The next cohort will begin in the fall of 2025. Applications are due September 15, 2025.

Mentee Fact Sheet          Mentee Application

Mentor Fact Sheet          Mentor Application

Coach Fact Sheet           Coach Application

For additional information, please write to Shauna Moses at smoses@njamhaa.org.