Uniting Nurses and Integrating Therapists for Youth (UNITY)

The University of Rochester’s School of Nursing and Warner School of Education & Human Development are partnering on a four-year initiative to address the growing mental health needs of youth in rural and under-resourced communities across New York State. 

Over the course of the program, the Uniting Nurses and Integrating Therapists for Youth (UNITY) initiative will prepare 48 master’s-level psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) and mental health counselors to deliver culturally responsive, interprofessional care for youth at risk for mental health, trauma-related, and behavioral disorders. 

UNITY emphasizes specialized training in trauma-informed care, substance use disorders, pediatric service collaboration, and mind-body wellness. Students also benefit from robust clinical placements and professional development opportunities designed to prepare them for work in high-need settings.

Students gain hands-on experience through internships at community-based sites such as the University’s Mount Hope Family Center, Delphi Rise, Villa of Hope, and other partner organizations. To support student success, UNITY addresses common barriers through financial support, flexible training options, and access to wellness resources.

By investing in the next generation of mental health professionals, UNITY aims to strengthen the behavioral health workforce and expand access to care for youth in under-resourced communities. Program findings and resources will be shared regionally and nationally to inform best practices in mental health workforce development.