Upcoming Events
The Value of Primary Care Behavioral Health Integration
Date
June 22, 2026
Featured Speaker
Stacy Agosto
Illinois Primary Health Care Association
Overview
Behavioral health and primary care are deeply connected, and strengthening that connection is essential to improving health outcomes. This session explored integrated care models and practical implementation strategies that improve access to care, strengthen coordination between providers, and support whole-person health.
Key Takeaways
Earlier identification of behavioral health needs
Increased access to care
Stronger coordination between behavioral health and primary care providers
Whole-person care
Improved outcomes for patients and communities
Resources
From Plan to Pipeline: Strengthening the Behavioral Health Workforce
Date
June 4, 2026
Featured Speaker
Andy Hall
President, Trailhead Strategies
Overview
Strengthening the behavioral health workforce requires more than identifying challenges—it requires building sustainable pathways into rewarding careers.
In this Learning Series session, Andy Hall shared updates on the Cook County Behavioral Health Apprenticeship and Retention Hub, highlighting progress to date and what it will take to continue expanding and sustaining the model. Participants also learned about Cook County's broader workforce strategy, including efforts to scale pre-apprenticeship programs, strengthen early entry pathways, and build supported career pathways that help individuals enter, grow, and remain in the behavioral health workforce.
Key Takeaways
Progress to date on the Cook County Behavioral Health Apprenticeship and Retention Hub
Strategies to expand and sustain the behavioral health workforce
Scaling pre-apprenticeship programs and strengthening early entry pathways
Building supported career pathways that enable individuals to enter, grow, and remain in behavioral health careers
How providers, educators, employers, and community partners can engage in apprenticeship and workforce initiatives
The shared role we all play in building a workforce that meets the needs of Cook County communities
Participants left with a clearer understanding of Cook County's workforce strategy, opportunities to engage, and the actions needed to help grow and sustain the behavioral health workforce.
Resources
The Use of AI and Digital Technology in Behavioral Health: A Conversation with the Experts
Date
July 30, 2025
Featured Speakers
Dr. Niranjan Karnik, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor and Chair, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Rush University Medical Center
Dr. David C. Mohr, Ph.D.
Director, Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Overview
Artificial intelligence and digital technologies are rapidly transforming behavioral health care. This Learning Series session explored how emerging technologies can enhance clinical care, improve patient engagement, expand access to services, and support providers while also examining important considerations related to ethics, privacy, implementation, and responsible innovation.
Participants gained insights into the evolving role of AI and digital tools in behavioral health and discussed opportunities and challenges for integrating these technologies into practice.
Key Takeaways
The growing role of artificial intelligence in behavioral health care
Digital tools that can improve access, engagement, and care delivery
Ethical, privacy, and implementation considerations
Opportunities and challenges for behavioral health organizations
The future of technology-enabled behavioral health care
Resources