Oklahoma faces mental health workforce shortage, report reveals
By Kilee Thomas
Published on March 11, 2026.
A new National Association of the National Council of Experts report has revealed that Oklahoma is facing a shortage of mental health workers, with only 21% of its workforce meeting needs and patients waiting for weeks or months for treatment. The report suggests that this shortage is not just an isolated incident, but a national level of low pay for mental health providers is also a contributing factor. The National Alliance of Public Health Services (Phenomenon) is working to address this issue. The state legislature is debating several proposed mental health bills, including one that would require insurance companies to cover essential medical treatments.
Related Articles
Genetics, Family History Behind Plaintiff’s Mental Health Struggles, Not Social Media, Says Defense Expert
A leading expert testified that genetics and family history were likely to blame for the 20-year-old's mental health issues, rather than social media addiction.
Dear Annie: I feel like an emotional utility service, not a real friend
A friend tells us about being the emotional utility service, highlighting the need for personal support and highlighting the importance of personal relationships.
A surprising percentage of produce from the nation’s largest supplier contains ‘forever’ pesticides
Nearly 40% of nonorganic fruits and vegetables grown in California contain PFAS, or “forever chemicals," posing a significant public health and environmental risk.