ACCESS Mental Health: Advancing Care through Community Engagement, Education, and Sustainable Solutions

Overview 

ACCESS Mental Health (Advancing Care through Community Engagement, Education, and Sustainable Solutions for Mental Health) was created to achieve and sustain quality in access, engagement, and delivery of mental health care services for all North Carolinians. 

Our Vision 

We envision universal access to quality mental healthcare that leads to positive health outcomes for all people. 

Our Mission 

To reduce barriers to mental healthcare access by educating clinicians, developing a workforce with varied lived experiences, and increasing engagement with North Carolina communities. 

Our Strategic Framework 

Developing Mental and Behavioral Health Career Pathways  

Increasing entrance and retention of learners in the various professional career pathways for mental health.  

Enhancing Clinician Education  

Providing faculty, staff, and learners foundational education on factors impacting mental healthcare access and strategies to mitigate their impact on outcomes.  

Engaging and Collaborating with Local Communities  

Engaging in efforts that center the perspectives of patients and local NC communities. Collaborating with community members to improve mental healthcare access and outcomes. 

Building Community 

Developing a culture that fosters an environment of teammates and stakeholders (i.e., patients, caregivers, community members, research participants) who feel respected and valued.