Heidelberg counseling program awarded HRSA grant

TIFFIN — Heidelberg University's Master of Arts in Counseling program has received a $2.25 million grant from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration to expand mental health workforce training and support students and supervisors. The funding, the program's fourth HRSA award, will be distributed over four years to address Ohio's critical shortage of mental health professionals, especially in rural communities. Eligible students completing clinical placements between 2025 and 2029 can receive stipends up to $25,000 to help reduce the cost of graduate training. Up to 16 students per year are expected to benefit. The grant also supports advanced training at no cost, including certifications in Trauma-Informed Integrated Care, Telehealth, and Sand Tray Therapy. Additionally, the program will offer mental health first aid training to undergraduate students and stipends for local clinical supervisors, strengthening community partnerships. "We are proud of Heidelberg's continued leadership in developing highly skilled, compassionate counselors equipped to serve where they are most needed," said Dr. Meagan McBride, program director. Applications for upcoming cohorts are open. More information is available at heidelberg.edu/mac.