DHS outlines initial and ongoing training requirements for mental health providers

In a recent training session held on June 3, 2025, Ashland County officials outlined the essential requirements for initial and ongoing training for providers in the Comprehensive Community Services (CCS) program. The meeting, attended by various stakeholders, focused on the guidelines set forth by the Department of Health Services (DHS) under administrative code DHS 36, which governs the training and documentation necessary for providers working with individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges.

The session began with a clear explanation of the initial training requirements. New providers with six months or more of relevant experience are required to complete 20 hours of training, while those with less experience must complete 40 hours. This training must be documented and validated through a resume or application, emphasizing the importance of accurate representation of experience. Additionally, specific roles such as rehabilitation support providers and peer specialists must complete an extra 30 hours of training within the past two years, bringing their total to either 50 or 70 hours, depending on their prior experience.

A significant portion of the training can be fulfilled through an online course offered by the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, which is tailored to meet the needs of licensed providers. However, those who are not licensed must complete the full training program. The meeting also highlighted that ongoing training is crucial, with all providers required to complete at least eight hours of relevant training annually.

The discussion further delved into supervision requirements, which vary based on the provider's qualifications and the amount of direct service provided to CCS participants. For instance, providers at the bachelor’s level or below must have one hour of supervision for every 30 hours of service, while licensed doctoral and master’s level practitioners require one hour of clinical collaboration for every 120 service hours.

As the meeting concluded, the importance of maintaining up-to-date caregiver background checks was reiterated, with a reminder that these checks remain valid for four years. The comprehensive training and supervision framework aims to ensure that providers are well-equipped to support individuals in need, fostering a community of care that is both effective and compliant with state regulations.

This training session marks a significant step in enhancing the quality of services provided to vulnerable populations in Ashland County, reinforcing the commitment to professional development and accountability within the CCS program.