Community-Based Interdisciplinary Training for Postmasters Prepared Providers: Addressing a Gap Post-Masters Professional Education to Expand Access to Care

Background and Purpose: There is a growing recognition that addressing the complex needs of individuals affected by substance/opioid use and co-occurring disorders requires that behavioral health professionals work across disciplines. In response, a number of academic based programs have emerged that focus on advancing interprofessional training in integrated behavioral health care, in part with support of the Integrate Substance Use Disorder Training Programs funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration.

This paper reports on findings on the Community-Based Integrated Substance Use Training Program (CB-ISTP) and contributes to the growing body of work on collaborative partnerships between academic institutions and community organizations aimed at advancing interdisciplinary training in integrated substance/opioid use and co-occurring disorders. The goal is to expand access to care in the metropolitan area by increasing the number of specialty-trained providers equipped to work in integrated treatment settings.

Methods: Data was collected from graduates of the first cohort (five social workers, one licensed professional counselor, and one health psychologist) through an online survey assessing program strengths, areas for improvement, and its impact on their clinical approach. A 6-month follow-up survey is scheduled for June of 2025 to understand how the fellows practice has changed in response to their training. This data will be included in the updated presentation materials. Information on program challenges was compiled from staff during the development and implementation phase of the project.

Findings: Data from the graduates indicate that there were important benefits of training within an interdisciplinary cohort. Students noted that they valued peer interactions and student-led discussions guided by instructors. One participant noted, “I loved how class conversations were primarily student-led while the subject was guided by the instructor.” The expertise of instructors and addition of guest speakers with expertise areas such as harm prevention and trauma were found to enhance the experience. Simulation experiences with individuals with lived experience acting as patients were found to enhance the depth and breadth of learning by providing real-world insights and practical applications of theoretical concepts. Fellows reported that the diverse perspectives offered through interdisciplinary instruction and case-based learning significantly enriched their understanding of addiction science and behavioral health treatment.

Program developers were challenged by time limitations for the development and execution of CB-ISTP, by the implementation of a new learning platform during the first training period, and the quasi-academic/quasi professional nature of the program that was unique for an academic setting.

Conclusion and Implications: Findings indicate that the CB-ISTP provides a scalable model for interdisciplinary training to support the needs of social work and allied health professions and community-based agencies. This program created new partnership opportunities to expand professional behavioral health resources to facilitate recovery among individuals and families impacted by substance/opioid use and co-occurring disorders.

Earlier planning to build awareness of the value of programs like CB-ISTP within the university setting can help ensure easier adoption and greater impact within the academic community. The support and visibility with community partners was found to be significant in helping execution of this project.