Job Opportunity: Policy Fellow at Mental Health America
Position Title: Policy Fellow
Location: Washington, DC (with up to 20% travel)
Compensation: 12-month fellowship with benefits. $65,000 with a 4-year degree / $75,000 with Masters, PhD, or JD
Overview
Mental Health America (MHA) is seeking a dedicated and passionate Policy Fellow to support our federal policy efforts aimed at promoting innovative, evidence-informed, and equitable mental health policy solutions. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to engage in legislative and regulatory research, support the Policy and Advocacy Teams, and contribute to advancing mental health promotion, workforce development, and early intervention access, including integrated care.
Key Responsibilities
- Research and Analysis: Conduct thorough research on federal bills, congressional activities, regulations, and administrative actions to align with MHA’s policy priorities.
- Policy Recommendations: Collaborate with team members to develop evidence-based policy recommendations.
- Engagement: Interact with policymakers and stakeholders to support MHA’s legislative and regulatory recommendations.
- Advocacy Materials: Draft letters of support or opposition and other written materials to influence legislative and administrative decisions.
- Communications: Create blogs, briefs, and social media content to inform the Affiliate network and the public about MHA’s policy positions.
- Representation: Attend meetings, briefings, and the annual conference in Washington, DC, representing MHA both in-person and virtually.
- Collaboration: Work with the State Advocacy team to promote affiliate-led initiatives aligned with our policy priorities.
- Administrative Support: Perform administrative and other tasks as assigned.
Qualifications
- Education: Pursuing or recently obtained a BA; MA/JD candidates early in their careers are encouraged to apply.
- Commitment: Strong understanding and commitment to the role of individuals with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use conditions in policymaking and advocacy.
- Experience: Some experience in advocacy at the local, state, or federal level, with demonstrated professional and/or volunteer experience in mental health advocacy.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Non-Partisan Advocacy: Ability to work with bipartisan policymakers.
- Government Understanding: Solid understanding of federal government agencies and congressional committees.
- Collaborative Skills: Strong collaborative skills and a team-oriented mindset.
Position Details
- Term: Full-time, paid position for a 12-month term.
- Reporting: Reports directly to the Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy.
- Collaboration: Works closely with MHA’s communications, marketing, programs, and outreach staff, as well as the MHA Affiliate Network.
Commitment to Diversity and Anti-Racism
MHA is committed to anti-racism and embraces diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work, including our hiring practices. We actively work against individual and systemic racism and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment.
About Mental Health America
Mental Health America is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health, well-being, and illness prevention. Our work is informed, designed, and led by the lived experience of those most affected. Operating nationally and in communities across the country, MHA advocates for closing the mental health equity gap while increasing nationwide awareness and understanding through public education, direct services, tools, and research.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about mental health policy and advocacy and meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this exciting fellowship opportunity with Mental Health America.
Apply Now
For more information about Mental Health America and our work, visit HERE.
