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Background
The Pathways Behavioral Health Education Award was established in 2026 to address the growing demand for behavioral health professionals across Tennessee’s 90 rural counties. This initiative is designed to strengthen Tennessee’s public behavioral health workforce by supporting students who are committed to careers in substance use disorder treatment and mental health services.
TAADAS and TAMHO partner with providers and educational institutions across the state to address workforce shortages and expand access to high-quality care. Through this education award, eligible students may receive financial assistance while preparing to serve individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
The Pathways Behavioral Health Education Award is jointly administered by the Tennessee Association of Mental Health Organizations (TAMHO) and the Tennessee Association of Alcohol, Drug & other Addiction Services (TAADAS).
Who Should Apply
Applicants are encouraged to apply if they:
- Are currently enrolled in or applying to an approved behavioral health or related academic program.
- Have a demonstrated interest in substance use disorder treatment and recovery services, and/or mental health treatment and supports.
- Are committed to supporting Tennessee’s behavioral health system.
- Are willing to commit to working for five (5) years at a qualifying Rural Healthcare Agency that serves Tennesseans with the greatest needs and least ability to pay.
What to Expect
Applicants will:
- Review eligibility requirements.
- Complete and submit the application and supporting materials.
- Participate in the selection process if selected for further consideration.
- Commit to working at a Rural Healthcare Agency upon graduation.
Please review all sections, including the list of eligible work sites, carefully before submitting your application.
Education Award recipients must:
- Be United States Citizen (or otherwise lawfully present in the United States) and a Tennessee resident seeking a master's degree in counseling, psychiatric nursing, social work, psychology, or similar behavioral health profession.
- Demonstrate a commitment to work within Tennessee’s behavioral health system upon completion of academic training.
- Be enrolled or enrolling in an accredited higher education institution in Tennessee.
- Remain in good academic standing throughout participation in the program.
- Commit to working at a Rural Healthcare Agency agency upon graduation.
- Education Awards are provided for tuition costs (books not included) of up to $7,500 per academic semester and up to $15,000 per academic year. Students can be part-time or full-time. The maximum award amount is $30,000 over a two-year period.
- In exchange for tuition assistance, recipients will commit to working five (5) years at a qualifying Rural Healthcare Agency that serves Tennesseans with the greatest needs and the least ability to pay.*
*These agencies must be listed on the attached graphic here.
Applicants can expect to hear back from program administrators within three weeks. Education Awards are not guaranteed to applicants.
Required Application Materials
Applicants must submit:
- A completed application form
- Proof of United States citizenship
- Proof of Tennessee residency
Important Information
• Applications must be complete to be considered
• Submission does not guarantee acceptance into the program
• Additional documentation or interviews may be required during the review process
For more information, contact us at ruralhealth@taadas.org or tamho@tamho.org
Process
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1. Register
Click the "Register" link and complete and submit the registration form.
2. Login
Login with your email and password.
3. Create
Create your online application.
4. Save
During the Call for Applications period, your application can be saved as DRAFT until all the required information is completed and attachments uploaded. As each section is complete, you will see a 
appear in the category tab when the application is saved. At any time, you can download and print your application by clicking on the 
icon in the Application Summary section.
5. Submit
Submit a fully completed application form with all required information and documents. Ensure the following materials are included:
- Proof of United States citizenship.
- Proof of Tennessee residency.
Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.
6. Application Review
TAADAS and TAMHO will review applications based on eligibility, completeness, and alignment with program goals. Qualified applicants may be contacted for additional information.
7. Notification of Award
Selected applicants will receive official notification with next steps, including any program agreements or requirements.
8. Program Participation
Award recipients are expected to:
- Maintain enrollment
- Comply with program guidelines
- Participate in any required program activities
How long does the review process take?
Review timelines vary; applicants will be notified once decisions have been made.
Can I apply if I have not started my program yet?
Yes. Applicants who have been accepted into an accredited program may apply.
Is there a service requirement?
In exchange for tuition assistance, recipients will commit to working five (5) years at a qualifying Rural Healthcare Agency after graduation. Failure to fulfill the service requirement will result in repayment of the awarded funds.
Who do I contact for assistance?
Please contact TAADAS ruralhealth@taadas.org, TAMHO tamho@tamho.org, or the Program Administrator using the contact information provided on the application page.
Key Dates
Contact Us
Contact Us
If your application is being managed by TAADAS, please use the below contact information:1321 Murfreesboro Pike #155
Nashville, TN 37217 United States
Phone: 615-780-5901
Email: pathways@taadas.org
