MDHHS Now Accepting Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program Applications

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services' Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program provides up to $15,000 to students who have obtained a qualifying unpaid internship to cover costs such as tuition, fees, books and living expenses.  This fourth round of the program could benefit up to 73 interns.  The application deadline is January 26th:

https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/inside-mdhhs/newsroom/2026/01/16/bhisp-2026

https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/inside-mdhhs/legislationpolicy/workforce-access-and-grants-management-section/mi-bhisp

https://dataentry.ibem-is.org/surveys/?s=C33WKRJNMNRNTKPW

Application period for Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program is now open
By Laina Stebbins - January 16, 2026

Deadline is Jan. 26 to apply for up to $15,000

LANSING, Mich. – As part of its continuing efforts to increase access to behavioral health services for Michigan residents, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is again offering a stipend program to student interns in Michigan enrolled in accredited behavioral health bachelor’s or master’s degree programs.

“Michigan remains deeply committed to expanding access to behavioral health care by investing in the workforce that delivers it,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “Now in its fourth cohort, this program continues to attract significant interest, with 159 students supported last year alone. By helping future behavioral health professionals gain hands-on experience in communities across Michigan, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more accessible behavioral health system.”

The Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program provides up to $15,000 to students who have obtained a qualifying unpaid internship to cover costs such as tuition, fees, books and living expenses. Students pursuing degrees for any of the following behavioral health professions are eligible: marriage or family therapist, behavior analyst, social worker, professional counselor or psychologist. Students receive a one-time stipend in the amount of $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000 depending on how many hours their internship requires.

MDHHS has allocated $1.25 million for the program, which could benefit up to 73 interns depending on how much funding the students qualify for during the program.

Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited program within the United States and have an approved internship in Michigan that meets the stipend program requirements. Participants will take part in program surveys and engage in program evaluation activities. A commitment to seeking employment in Michigan’s behavioral health sector after graduation is also required.

The application period is now open, and applicants must complete an online form by Monday, Jan. 26, and submit the necessary documentation. Applicants will receive an email notification of their acceptance status within six weeks of the application deadline.

For more information and to apply, visit the Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program website.