Michigan – With the launch Michigan Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program (MI-BHISP), Michigan is showing an ambitious support for future behavioral health professionals. By providing significant cash stipends to qualified students participating in unpaid internships in diverse mental health environments, this creative endeavor seeks to strengthen the workforce in the state.
Designed to meet Michigan’s rising need for qualified behavioral health practitioners, the MI-BHISP is Providing stipends of up to $15,000, the program helps students from many educational backgrounds—behavior analysis, marriage and family therapy, social work, professional counseling, and psychology. The objective is to improve students’ practical training and exposure to real-world challenges in the field while reducing their financial load.
Students eligible for the MI-BHISP must be enrolled in a U.S. recognized bachelor’s or master’s degree program targeted toward a career in behavioral health. Among others, the internship must be unpaid and take place in particular locations including Community Mental Health agencies, Pre-paid Inpatient Health Plans (PIHP), Tribal Health Centers, or Urban Indian Clinics.
Participants must finish all of their internship assignments and follow certain administrative policies including turning in a stipend agreement, an unofficial school transcript, and a completed W-9 form for payment processing. Based on total hours completed, the stipend—which does not recur—is paid in two increments ranging from $5,000 for 80-200 hours to $15,000 for 401-600 hours.

It is important for applicants to understand that receiving a stipend could influence their financial aid status. To properly manage any possible effects, individuals are advised to consult a tax specialist or financial advisor.
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The MI-BHISP 2025 application window runs from January 8 to January 22. To seize this possibility, prospective participants are advised to prepare their materials in advance and apply within this period.
Participating with the MI-BHISP not only reduces the financial burden of unpaid internships but also offers valuable behavioral healthcare experience. Interns have the opportunity to significantly benefit Michigan communities and learn the essentials for their professional development and future employment opportunities.
Starting January 8, 2025, the MI-BHISP website will be the primary tool available for anyone interested in applying or seeking further information. Questions can be directed to the provided program email, ensuring applicants have direct support throughout the application process.
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The MI-BHISP marks a major progress in helping the coming generation of behavioral health professionals as Michigan keeps investing in its healthcare workforce. This initiative seeks to improve the general quality of mental health services provided across the state in addition to helping students to develop their skills.