Nebraska Sees Significant Growth in Behavioral Health Workforce, Expanding Access to Care
The Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN) has released its 2026 Behavioral Health Workforce Capacity Report, highlighting a substantial increase in the state's behavioral health workforce. From 2010 to 2024, Nebraska experienced a 49% rise in licensed behavioral health providers, with a notable 24% increase in rural areas. This growth has resulted in approximately 1.2 million additional behavioral health appointments available to Nebraskans in 2024 compared to 2010. The expansion includes a significant increase in appointments with licensed psychiatric medical providers and psychological assessment and therapy providers. The report underscores the impact of long-term investment in workforce development on improving access to behavioral health services across Nebraska. 
