Wellbeing Approach to Care
Behavioral Health Blueprint
The Wellbeing Approach to Care Blueprint is a practical guide for integrating Wellbeing Specialists into Washington State’s public behavioral health system—expanding access to culturally grounded, team-based mental health support.
Wellbeing Specialists are trained practitioners with lived and cultural experience who offer relational, therapeutic services that work alongside licensed clinical care. This role creates entry-level pathways into the behavioral health workforce, opening doors for individuals rooted in community insight and care.
Developed through a multiyear, community-driven codesign process led by the CARE project, the Blueprint provides actionable guidance for behavioral health organizations, policymakers, and workforce planners. It covers:
Service design and team integration
Training and certification
Billing and sustainability strategies
Partnership development
This Blueprint serves as a foundational guide for piloting and scaling this innovative workforce model, aiming to strengthen equitable care and community wellbeing throughout Washington State.
Wellbeing Specialist Presentation
The CARE team unveiled the vision for Wellbeing Specialists at the 2025 Washington State Mental Health Summit.
Watch the recording to learn how the strategy came to life, explore the proposed implementation plan, and find out how you can help support this initiative across the state.
Get Involved
If you would like to connect with our team and learn more about this project, please fill out the form below.
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.