Virginia Beach offering $1K hiring incentive to MH professionals

Abstract

The need to hire mental health professionals is more prevalent than ever — with the industry being understaffed, 3WTKR reported Feb. 12. The city of Virginia Beach is offering an incentive of $1,000 to those who apply and are hired for these jobs. “It's been incredibly frustrating and gratifying,” said Kurt Hooks, the CEO of Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center. For many mental health professionals, the COVID‐19 pandemic has been a long ride. “The burnout has been real and it's understandable why people might be looking to other sectors of the economy to seek out jobs,” Hooks said. Hooks said burnout has contributed to the mental health industry being understaffed. The Hampton Roads Workforce Council is administering the program. “The city made available $200,000 in hiring and retention bonuses,” Michael Woodhead, a consultant with the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, said. Who qualifies for this funding? “Anyone who qualifies as a mental health or behavioral service provider qualifies for this program as long as they are doing business in the city of Virginia Beach,” Woodhead said.