Preferred Behavioral Health Group CEO Calls for Increased Funding for Behavioral Healthcare Services

Dr. Chalakani: Increased funds to provide adequate behavioral healthcare services is a winning investment for all New Jersey taxpayers

LAKEWOOD—In response to Governor Murphy’s budget address, Dr Tara Chalakani, CEO, Preferred Behavioral Health Group, today called on Governor Murphy and legislators to increase funding for rates and contracts in the Department of Human Services and Department of Children and Families for behavioral healthcare:

“One of the most important priorities of our state government should be to provide assistance to our fellow citizens in their time of need. New Jersey continues to face a mental health crisis, and in order to tackle the unprecedented demands in our communities, our state first needs to ensure we have an adequately funded behavioral healthcare workforce. Our Governor and Legislature need to increase rates and contracts in the Department of Human Services and Department of Children and Families, as well as provide as a cost of living adjustment to workers to keep pace with inflation.  Our industry suffers from a post-pandemic dirth of direct care providers with a low salary being the top reason they have left field.

“Behavioral healthcare has a profound impact on those in need of services, and also benefits New Jersey economically by reducing emergency room visits, hospitalization, and homelessness. Overall, when the mental wellness of New Jersey’s residents improve, so does our economy, our businesses, our schools, and our communities. Increasing funds to provide adequate behavioral healthcare services is a winning investment for all New Jersey taxpayers.”

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ABOUT PBHG:

Preferred Behavioral Health Group, https://www.preferredbehavioral.org, is the leading behavioral healthcare organization in central New Jersey. Since 1978, Preferred Behavioral Health Group has been dedicated to providing quality care to those in need of guidance, counseling, and assistance with difficult personal issues. Diversity and inclusion are integral parts of our culture. Our programs and services are available to all types of individuals, families, and communities. We are committed to providing our clients with the best care to address their specific challenges. Our goal is to build up individuals, communities, and families so they can live improved lives, embrace healthy lifestyles, and enjoy a higher quality of mental, psychological, and physical health.