Is Hawai’i’s Mental Health Crisis Trapping You in a Six-Month Waiting Room?

Imagine struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, only to be told you can’t get help for half a year. That’s the harsh reality for countless Hawai’i residents, thanks to a shocking shortage of mental health professionals. Here’s why and how YOU can make a difference.

We have the professionals, but they’re leaving. Hawai’i desperately needs therapists, but better opportunities on the continent lure away many who graduate here. Why? Because our state’s licensing laws create an unnecessary hurdle.

Imagine graduating ready to help but unable to get paid. That’s what happens to qualified therapists under the current system. They must work for free for a year before they can bill insurance. This leaves many talented therapists sidelined.

There’s a solution, and it’s called HB1830. This bill would grant temporary licenses to these therapists, allowing them to get paid while gaining supervised experience. This opens doors for more training opportunities and brings more therapists into the workforce, shortening your wait time and getting you the help you deserve.

But HB1830 needs your help to pass! It’s been held up for years, and the mental health crisis isn’t waiting. We’re also losing talented therapists from our local communities who can’t afford the current system, creating a gap in culturally competent care.

Don’t let this bill become another missed opportunity! Contact your Senator or House representative and urge them to support HB1830!

Together, we can build a stronger mental health safety net for Hawai’i. Let’s make mental healthcare accessible, affordable, and equitable for everyone!