About Us
Who We Are
The Washington Institute for Mental Health Research & Training (WIMHRT) is a research and training consortium affiliated with the University of Washington, Washington State University, and the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. Here is a list of some of our current and recently-completed projects:
- Certified Peer Counselor Survey*
- MHSIP (Mental Health Statistics Improvement Project) Adult Consumer and Family Surveys
- PACT Team Training, Consultation & Fidelity Assessments
- Specialized Statewide Initiative Conferences (e.g., Employment, Children's Mental Health, Older Adult)
- Anti-Stigma Speakers’ Bureau*
- Consumer & Family Evaluation Mini-Grant Program*
- Clubhouse Consultation & Technical Assistance
- Statewide Evidenced-Based Practices Survey*
- Transformation Grant Survey*
- Certified Peer Counselor Training & Certification
- Co-Occurring Disorders Case Management (Child & Adult) Trainings for Providers
- “Marty Smith” Safety Trainings
- Ombuds/QRT Training & Technical Assistance
- Mental Health First Aid Instructor Certification Course
- Child Mental Health Specialist Training
- Native American Mental Health Specialist Training
*Items marked with an asterix (*) are funded by the Mental Health Transformation Project
In addition to our Western Branch located in Tacoma, WA, WIMHRT also has an Eastern Branch located in Spokane at the Washington State University campus (WIMHRT-East)
Our Founding and Mission
Under the auspices of the Division of Public Behavioral Health & Justice Policy within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Washington, WIMHRT provides an independent source for high-quality research and professional training in the field of behavioral health care. Since 1989, when the Washington State Legislature established the Institute, we have been working to improve the quality of public behavioral health services in the following ways:
- Promoting the recruitment & retention of highly qualified professionals at the state mental health hospitals and in community-based programs;
- Improving clinical care by exploring new, innovative & scientifically-based treatment models (evidenced-based practices);
- Providing expanded training opportunities for existing staff at state hospitals and community programs; and
- Encouraging understanding of treatment orientation, possibilities and challenges between state hospital personnel and community treatment professionals.
For more information on any of the above projects, research or trainings, please click here for contact information.