As the 2026 Legislative Session approaches, MACo is highlighting some of the major issues likely to garner attention and shape debate in the General Assembly. Among them, the state of the behavioral health workforce shortage remains a priority for stakeholders and stands to gather significant attention. 
Labor challenges significantly impact the quality and delivery of behavioral health care. Like many states, Maryland faces a shortage of behavioral health professionals that is expected to intensify, further limiting access to care. With this, the Maryland Department of Legislative Services is anticipating additional legislative measures to address these challenges.
Similar to trends nationwide, Maryland faces a substantial shortage of behavioral health professionals, with almost every county classified as a mental health professional shortage area. The Maryland Health Care Commission (MHCC) estimated that, as of calendar 2023, Maryland’s 34,600 behavioral health professionals constituted only half of the number necessary to meet the State’s behavioral health needs.
These labor shortages limit the availability of psychiatrists, counselors, social workers, nurses, and addiction specialists across the state and hinder the delivery of critical behavioral health care. In all, MHCC estimates that Maryland will need about 32, 786 new behavioral health workers by 2028 to meet the State’s needs.
According to the Issue Papers,
“The supply of professionals as of calendar 2023 compared to the estimated number of new hires needed to meet projected demand in calendar 2028. These projections account for both the current shortage (approximately 18,222 workers) and estimated turnover due to retirement, exit from State service, or leaving the behavioral health field (approximately 14,565 workers). Across all occupations, MHCC estimates that Maryland will need approximately 32,786 new workers by calendar 2028.”
As previously covered by MACo, the MHCC report recommends a $148.5 million investment over the course of five years designed to prioritize paid training and education, improve job quality, streamline licensing processes, and promote careers in behavioral health.
While investments to improve shortages in the behavioral health workforce are essential, the price tag is a significant challenge amidst Maryland’s looming budget deficit. The 2026 legislative session will be a critical time to tackle these challenges and work toward practical solutions.
