On Wednesday, April 15, Josselyn’s Chief Clinical Officer, Michael Scholl, LCSW, led a group of 10 clinical staff members to the Illinois State Capitol to participate in Behavioral Health Advocacy Day. This statewide event brings together providers, advocates, and community organizations to advance legislative priorities that strengthen access to mental health services.
Throughout the day, Josselyn clinicians met directly with elected officials and legislative staff, including Sen. Mary Edly-Allen, Sen. Darby Hills, Sen. Adriane Johnson, Sen. Julie Morrison, Rep. Norine Hammond, Rep. Tracy Katz Muhl, and Rep. Martin McLaughlin, among others. These conversations focused on urgent behavioral health needs across Illinois communities and key priorities tied to the FY27 state budget, including sustainable funding for community mental health services, workforce investment, improved access to care, and expanded support for prevention and early intervention programs.
“It was meaningful to talk to legislators about our experience in our clinical roles and encourage them to vote in favor of some of the bills,” said Shreya Jain, MA, LPC, a therapist in Josselyn’s Intensive Outpatient Program.
For many participants, the experience offered a powerful opportunity to translate daily clinical realities into meaningful policy discussions. Clinicians shared firsthand perspectives on increasing demand for services, ongoing workforce challenges, and the critical importance of maintaining accessible, community-based care for individuals and families.
“It was awesome to meet other community organizations who continue to fight and advocate to improve mental health services in Illinois,” said Veronique Morales, LCPC, ATR, Josselyn’s Director of Expressive Therapy.
By engaging directly with policymakers, Josselyn staff helped illustrate how legislative decisions impact patient outcomes, provider capacity, and the long-term wellbeing of communities. The delegation emphasized the need for stable, sustained funding that enables organizations to recruit and retain qualified clinicians while continuing to expand services to meet growing demand.
“I was really amazed at how many people knew about Josselyn as we visited different offices and met with senators and legislators,” said John Cahill, LCPC, Josselyn’s Director of Training.
Equally important, the event fostered collaboration among behavioral health organizations across the state, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening Illinois’ mental health infrastructure through coordinated advocacy and ongoing policy engagement.
Select any photo below to view the gallery.
