UNF MedNexus and LSF Health Systems collaborate to address behavioral health workforce shortages

The University of North Florida's MedNexus and LSF Health Systems have teamed up to address critical workforce shortages in behavioral health across Northeast Florida.

Florida's behavioral health system is facing significant workforce shortages as demand for mental health and substance use services continues to rise.

This week, UNF MedNexus and LSF Health Systems hosted a talent summit focused on strengthening the regional talent pipeline and accelerating students into meaningful, high-impact careers.

UNF is No. 1 for jobs in the State University System of Florida, partnering with industry leaders to prepare students with the skills and knowledge they need to compete for jobs while helping employers fill in-demand positions.

The UNF MedNexus | LSF Behavioral Health Talent Summit brought together leading behavioral health organizations and high-potential students in psychology, social work, sociology and mental health counseling for a focused talent discovery and networking experience.

Graduating students connected directly with employers actively hiring for roles in mental health, substance use recovery, youth services, case management and integrated behavioral health roles. Students also learned about job opportunities and heard from employers who offer tuition reimbursement to support continued education.

"Through MedNexus, we are intentionally connecting students with behavioral health organizations that offer clearly defined pathways for career growth and leadership," said Dr. Julie Williams Merten, executive director and associate dean of UNF MedNexus.

Many of these employers provide tuition assistance that allows graduates to return to UNF to earn advanced degrees in counseling, social work, and related fields.

"That means students can launch their careers immediately, continue their education, and ultimately make an even greater impact in behavioral health while strengthening and retaining critical talent here in our region," Merten said.

LSF Health Systems is the state's managing entity for Northeast Florida and North Central Florida. It plays a key leadership role in advancing workforce development across the region, said Dr. Christine Cauffield, the organization's CEO.

"Behavioral health is one of the most urgent workforce challenges facing our communities," Cauffield said. "We're seeing increased demand for services across all populations, from youth and families to adults experiencing substance use and mental health crises. Investing in students today means strengthening the entire behavioral health system for tomorrow."