Partner Spotlight: Key Program, Inc.

William James College is a leader in educating the next generation of mental health professionals to support the growing and diverse needs of the mental health workforce. Since 1974, the mission has been clear: to meet society's evolving mental health needs by producing a diverse, culturally responsive workforce, with a focus on serving vulnerable populations.

“Partnerships that position behavioral health and psychology professionals to advance their careers—by linking academic training with real-world applied experience through employers—benefit everyone,” says Associate Director of Recruitment, Employer Partnerships, Carolyn Cross, MS. Partner scholarships and employer support facilitate enrollment in a diverse array of academic programs that support recruitment, retention, and advancement among partner agency staff.

For over 50 years, Key Program, Inc. has been dedicated to strengthening children, families, and emerging adults through a wide range of specialized services throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. From community outreach and mental health clinics to residential support, every program is rooted in culturally responsive care, helping to build a strong and inclusive foundation for all. Partnering with William James College creates career pathways and supports workforce development— via partner scholarships for staff who enroll in many WJC programs, including the BS completion program in Psychology and Human Services; MA and Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis; MA in Psychology, MA/CAGS in School Psychology, MA in Organizational Psychology and PsyD in Leadership Psychology.

 

What motivated your organization to partner with William James College?

We are seeking new ways to connect with students who are interested in employment or internship opportunities with Key, while also equipping them with the tools they need to be successful both in their current roles and in future endeavors with the organization. Through targeted educational opportunities, we aim to support students’ professional growth and readiness for the workforce. In addition, we are committed to providing meaningful employment opportunities to recent graduates through the William James Behavioral Health Service Corps, creating a clear pathway from education to career advancement.

What aspects of this partnership are most valuable to your employees?

We aim to support our employees’ professional growth through education and training by offering open house opportunities where staff can learn more about William James College programs. In addition, we seek to provide exclusive benefits that add value for our team while strengthening their connection to the broader mental health field. By fostering these relationships and maintaining an ongoing partnership, we create long-term stability that community members and staff can rely on over time.

How do you see this partnership benefiting your employees and your organization overall? 

This partnership benefits both employees and the organization by creating meaningful opportunities for professional growth and long-term engagement. Employees are able to develop new skills and continue learning while remaining in their current roles, stay current with an evolving professional landscape, and prepare for more advanced responsibilities. In doing so, the partnership also opens doors for current and future staff to explore advanced educational opportunities that support their career trajectories. For the organization, a well-established and recognizable partnership enhances Key’s reputation as an employer of choice, giving future applicants an added incentive to apply. This creates a stronger pool of motivated candidates who are focused on long-term goals, while internship opportunities allow students to gain hands-on experience and consider Key as a potential place for ongoing employment.

How might this partnership help strengthen your workforce over time?

Emphasizing and offering professional development opportunities demonstrates to both current and prospective staff that we value their growth and are committed to supporting their long-term futures. By providing work-friendly and flexible programs, we reinforce the importance of work–life balance, which enhances the organization’s overall image and helps set a standard for competitors. In addition, access to ongoing professional development and educational opportunities enables staff to advance their careers within Key, fostering retention, engagement, and internal growth.

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