Applications open for NCDHHS student loan repayment program
RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Monday the launch of the Licensed Workforce Loan Repayment Program.
The $20 million recruitment and retainment initiative targets licensed professionals who provide mental health, substance use, intellectual and development disabilities, and traumatic brain injury services in rural communities.
Applicants must hold a valid North Carolina license in good standing, work at least 32 hours per week, provide services in mental health, substance use, IDD or TBI, be employed at an approved agency serving at least 40% Medicaid, uninsured, or underinsured individuals, and serve in a designated rural or underserved area.
The program includes up to $50,000 in student loan repayment, three-year service commitment in a rural or underserved county, focus on non-medical, licensed professionals like LCWS, LCMHC, LCAS, LMFT, or Licensed Psychologists and Psychological Associates.
The loan repayment program is designed for licensed, master’s-level professionals like counselors, social workers, and therapists who are essential to delivering services but also face financial barriers.
“Licensed professionals are a large and essential part of our mental health, substance use, and disability service systems,” said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services. “We cannot build a strong system of care without a strong workforce. This program is about investing in those professionals, supporting their careers, and ensuring that people across North Carolina have access to the care they need, close to home.
