Behavioral Health Integration (BHI) Scholars Traineeship
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Overview
The BHI Scholars Traineeship prepares UNC Nurse Practitioner students to deliver whole-person, integrated behavioral health care in rural and underserved communities across North Carolina.
This HRSA-funded initiative builds on the success of the 2017–2019 PEER NC project and continues through 2027 under the leadership of Dr. Victoria Soltis-Jarrett.
BHI Scholar Levels
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Full Scholar – Maximum financial support; full training requirements
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Associate Scholar – Partial financial support; reduced requirements
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Participant Scholar – No financial support; optional training participation
Who Can Apply?
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UNC NP students in FNP, AGNP, PNP, or PMHNP tracks
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Must be actively enrolled and beginning clinicals to be eligible for financial support
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BSN–DNP students: May join in Year 1, but funding begins in Year 2
BHI Scholar Training & Outcomes:
he BHI Scholars Traineeship equips UNC NP students to lead integrated, whole-person care in rural and underserved NC communities.
As a Scholar, you will:
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Deliver whole-person care by addressing mental health, substance use, and physical health together.
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Train with experts through seminars, ECHO sessions, online modules, and hands-on workshops.
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Gain rural experience in clinical sites where behavioral health needs are high.
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Collaborate across disciplines with behavioral health providers, social workers, and primary care teams.
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Advocate for equity through culturally responsive, stigma-free care.
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Apply innovative models like TANDEM³-PC to improve access and outcomes.
Application
Applications for 2025–2026 open Friday, August 22 and close Friday, September 5: BHI Application Link
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Contact
Questions? Contact:
Hanna Beers, Project Manager
hbeers@email.unc.edu
peer-nc@unc.edu