Wellbeing Approach to Care
Behavioral Health Blueprint
The Wellbeing Approach to Care Blueprint is a practical framework designed to expand access to prevention-focused, culturally grounded mental health support within Washington State’s public behavioral health system through the introduction of the Wellbeing Specialist role.
Wellbeing Specialists are trained practitioners with lived and cultural experience who provide relational, therapeutic services that complement licensed clinical care.
Developed through a deeply community-engaged, multiyear codesign process led by the CARE project, this Blueprint offers guidance for behavioral health organizations, policymakers, and workforce planners on implementing the Wellbeing Specialist role—covering service design, training, certification, billing, and partnership strategies. It serves as a foundational guide for piloting and scaling this innovative workforce model, aiming to strengthen equitable care and community wellbeing throughout Washington State.
The Wellbeing Approach to Care Blueprint is a product of the CARE for Kids & Families project, a multi-year initiative funded by the Washington state legislature focused on expanding access to culturally responsive care while centering community knowledge and lived experience. To learn more about the background and history of the CARE project, click here.