As communities across the U.S. grapple with rising mental health and substance use challenges, the role of skilled and collaborative public health leaders is increasingly critical.
The (NatCon) has announced the 11th cohort of the Behavioral Health Training Institute for Health Officials (BHTI), created to support public health officials and behavioral health professionals. The cohort launches in January 2026.
BHTI is presented in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Public Health Infrastructure and Workforce (Public Health Infrastructure Center). This six-month professional development program will provide up to 20 public health officials and their behavioral health partners with training and technical assistance focused on integrating public health and behavioral health competencies, enhancing leadership skills and building workforce capacity.
BHTI is open to any public health officials of a state, tribal, territorial or local governmental public health agency. Participation is FREE and includes:
- Registration to NatCon (Denver, Apr. 27-29, 2026).
- A specialized two-day, in-person training immediately before NatCon.
- Webinars, workshops and other training and technical assistance opportunities.
- Exclusive, facilitated colleague engagement with fellow public and behavioral health leaders.
- Direct access to subject matter experts.
- Mental Health First Aid training
Applications are due Friday, November. 14, at 11:59 pm. Selected applicants will be notified in December 2025. Questions about the application or this initiative? Contact Jasmine Feng.