In this episode, Martha Fling, President and CEO at Ackerman Institute for the Family, discusses what the Ackerman Institute for the Family is, why it was created, how it has evolved since it was first founded, how low reimbursement rates for providers are exacerbating the mental health crisis, and much more.
Summary
Innovative Approaches in Mental Health: Ackerman Institute for the Family
Introduction
In this episode, Martha Fling, President and CEO at Ackerman Institute for the Family, discusses what the Ackerman Institute for the Family is, why it was created, how it has evolved since it was first founded, how low reimbursement rates for providers are exacerbating the mental health crisis, and much more.
About Ackerman Institute for the Family
Martha Fling is the President and CEO of Ackerman Institute for the Family, founded in 1960 by Dr. Nathan W. Ackerman. Ackerman focuses on family therapy and treatment, and has developed many innovative programs and centers to address different issues that affect families. The pandemic has exacerbated the mental health crisis, creating a shortage of family therapists and mental health professionals.
Online Therapy for Underserved Communities
The Ackerman Institute for the Family provides online therapy to help people in underserved and marginalized areas access mental health services. They accept insurance, Medicaid, and have a sliding scale payment system. It's been difficult for mental health therapists to get paid what they deserve due to the low reimbursement rates from insurance companies, and there is an aging workforce of mental health professionals that is not being replaced quickly enough. The online form of therapy is more effective than in-person, as it allows for more consistency with treatment, and it allows them to reach people who wouldn't otherwise have access to their services.
The Challenges Faced by Mental Health Workers
Martha Fling, President and CEO of the Ackerman Institute for the Family, discussed the issues with therapist compensation and reimbursement. She suggests that a national healthcare plan would be the best way to serve everyone, but recognizes that there needs to be better funding in order to attract young people into the profession of social work and family therapy. She also notes that reimbursement levels need to rise in order to show appreciation for mental health workers and that cost of living increases are affecting therapists.
Note: This is an AI generated transcript, not edited by a staff writer and is solely intended for educational purposes. If you have any questions/concerns, reach out to podcasts@beckershealthcare.com
This episode aired on 05/27/2023 and can be listened here.
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