Piloting the new Prevention Fellowship Program: An Opportunity for Standardization

Beginning in 2006, the federal government's Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) created a multi-year Prevention Fellowship Program. The impetus for this program was not only to increase the critical shortage of substance abuse professionals working at the State/jurisdictional/organizational level but also to be responsive to the recommendations contained within the 2007 Action Plan on Behavioral Health Workforce, produced by the Annapolis Coalition with SAMHSA support. Fellows can be nominated by states/jurisdictions and prominent prevention organizations. The nominating organization provides the necessary mentorship as the program has required workshops with specific competencies. However, the core of the program is a continuous internship with the nominating entity, geared primarily at entry and mid-career individuals although some doctoral and post-doctoral individuals are fellows. Most mentors are representatives of the National Prevention Network (NPN), a component of the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD). The program has currently has over 30 fellows representing in various states, territories, and organizations. The program's curriculum focuses on utilizing the SAMHSA/CSAP Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF), specialized areas of expertise such as epidemiology and needs assessment, social marketing, and evidenced-based programs. Both qualitative and quantitative information is being collected as to the program and exploring all recommendations including licensure and certification, affiliation with other organizations, and the need for continuing education.