The Behavioral Mental Health Concentration (BMHC) was designed with the understanding that social workers in mental health settings must be competent in applying knowledge and skills in data collection, conceptualization, assessment, and intervention with a wide range of problems in diverse populations. To develop a high level of competence in these areas, both courses in the concentration emphasize (1) how various theoretical and empirical sources of knowledge relate to particular assessment and intervention strategies, and (2) how to implement assessment and intervention approaches in relation to cultural and situational contexts.

Students in the behavioral mental health concentration will critically examine the etiology of mental illness through a range of theories from the western biomedical perspective, the psychodynamic or psychosocial perspective and the sociocultural perspective. The concentration reviews various western as well as culturally based perspectives and interventions for mental illness. These include but are not limited to: medical diagnostic systems and psychotropic medications; case management which involves the strengths perspective, empowerment model and interdisciplinary teamwork to provide services, monitor and evaluate mental health programs; cognitive and behavioral approaches (e.g. psychosocial rehabilitation; eye movement desensitization reprocessing; dialectical behavioral therapy and others); traditional cultural methods; brief therapy; and psychoeducation.

Empirical research is emphasized throughout the concentration. Both concentration courses are updated annually and include current research regarding the etiology of mental illness, effective assessment and efficacious interventions. Students are expected to utilize empirically-based, best practices in developing intervention plans, and to evaluate their own practice utilizing a systematic performance measurement such as the logic model evaluation approach. 

Mental health policy making and program development are examined from the perspective of historical, contemporary, and future models of the mental health service provision in the U.S. and Hawaii. The impact of de jure and de facto policies on consumers with minimal resources and in relation to race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and social class will be examined and analyzed. Students will be provided opportunities to participate in consumer self-help, mutual aid and natural helping systems in order to advocate effectively for social and economic justice, and equitable mental health policies.

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Former Mental Health Concentration students and members of United Self Help

Hi`ilei Project training collaboration with Child & Adolescent Mental Health Division: (L to R. Paula Morelli (UH), Mary Brogan (CAMHD), Jon Matsuoka (UH), Christina Donkervoet (Chief of CAMHD), Tammy Martin (UH), and Judy Zissa (CAMHD).

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School of Social Work collaboration with Dept. of Health, Adult Mental Health Division: (from L to R) Dr. Paula Morelli, (Mental Health Concentration Chair), Dr. Tom Hester (Division Chief) & Dr. Jon Matsuoka (Interim Dean, UH School of Social Work)