Nebraska’s behavioral health workforce has expanded significantly over the past 14 years, according to the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska.
Here are five things to know:
- From 2010 to 2024, the number of licensed behavioral health providers in the state grew from 2,279 to 3,397 — a 49% increase.
- The fastest-growing roles were psychiatric physician assistants (up 267%) licensed independent mental health practitioners (up 225%) and psychiatric nurse practitioners (up 168%).
- Rural access to mental healthcare improved as the number of providers practicing in rural Nebraska rose 24%, helping close gaps in 40 counties.
- Despite progress, provider shortages, long wait times and limited in-person access persist with some residents traveling over an hour for care.
- Nebraska is the only state that longitudinally tracks its behavioral health workforce. Officials credit this approach with guiding data-informed strategies to expand access statewide.
At the Becker's Fall Behavioral Health Summit, taking place November 4–5 in Chicago, behavioral health leaders and executives will explore strategies for expanding access to care, integrating services, addressing workforce challenges and leveraging innovation to improve outcomes across the behavioral health continuum. Apply for complimentary registration now.
