Meeting Today’s Mental Health Demand with the Right People 

Across the country, the demand for mental health services has never been higher. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the U.S. is expected to face a shortage of about 31,000 mental health providers by 2025. Nearly half of all Americans already live in designated mental health shortage areas (Counseling.org, NIHCM.org). This isn’t just a national issue—it’s one we see every day in Colorado, where WSi Healthcare is based. And the same story is playing out in Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, and beyond. Patients need care, but facilities can’t find enough qualified professionals to meet the demand. So how is WSi Healthcare meeting those needs?

Why the Shortage Is Growing 

  • More people are seeking help. Conversations around mental health are more open than ever, and that’s a good thing—but it also means the system is stretched thin. 

  • Population growth is adding pressure. Expanding communities in Colorado and neighboring states are increasing patient loads and straining resources. 

  • Staff burnout is driving turnover. Burnout and attrition are leaving gaps that facilities can’t easily fill. 

  • Mental health is part of more care models. Primary care clinics now integrate behavioral health, which drives new demand for psychiatric nurse practitioners and CNAs. 

Why Mental Health NPs and CNAs Are Critical 

  • Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (NPs): They provide evaluations, medication management, and treatment planning. With only 6.5% of the nation’s 385,000 NPs specializing in mental health (Nurse.org), facilities rely heavily on their expertise. 

  • Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): CNAs deliver daily patient care and are often the first to notice early behavioral changes. With a projected shortage of 73,000 nursing assistants by 2028 (BOS Medical), their role is more important than ever. 

Together, NPs and CNAs are the backbone of quality mental health care—and their shortage is being felt everywhere. 

“By 2025, the U.S. is projected to face a shortage of 31,000 mental health providers.” 
– SAMHSA 

The Benefits of Working with WSi

At WSi Healthcare, we’ve built our business on solving these exact challenges. We provide:

  • W-2 Employment Protection—Fully insured, compliant, and no tax surprises.

  • PNC EarnedIt® Same Day Pay—Download the PNC EarnedIt mobile app and access a portion of your earned pay when you need it. 

  • Flexible Scheduling—Pick shifts that work around your life.

  • Dedicated Recruiter Support—A team of people that truly cares about your success.

  • Healthcare Coverage Options—Access to health insurance for eligible employees.

  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan—Build toward your future while you work.

  • Overtime Opportunities—Earn more when you want extra shifts.

  • Sick Time Accrual—Earn paid time off to use when you need it most.

From an outpatient clinic in Denver to a rural hospital in Nebraska or a correctional facility in Oklahoma, WSi delivers professionals who can step in and make an immediate impact. 

Local Roots, Expanding Reach 

For more than 40 years, WSi has served Colorado’s healthcare community. Over time, we’ve expanded into Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, Montana, and several other regions—bringing that same level of reliability and commitment to facilities beyond our home state. That combination of local experience and regional reach means facilities can count on us when it matters most. The mental health crisis isn’t slowing down. Facilities everywhere are scrambling to find enough mental health NPs and CNAs, and patients are left waiting for the care they need.  Having the right staffing partner makes all the difference. With decades of experience, flexible solutions, and a proven ability to deliver, WSi Healthcare is the solution. 

Let’s Solve Your Staffing Needs 

Call 855-WSi-JOBS (855-974-5627) or connect through our Contact Page. Whether you're building your healthcare career or managing patient care at a busy facility, WSi Healthcare Personnel is ready to support you.

For Job Seekers
Search Jobs Now— Find flexible shifts, get paid fast, and work with a team that advocates for you.

For Facilities
Request Staff Today— Need CNA, RN, therapist, or medical assistant coverage? We’ll match you with credentialed professionals ready to support your mission.

Looking for more insights?

Visit the WSi Blog or see what our partners say on our Testimonials Page. 

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