A: A Pre-Apprenticeship program, or PRAP, with United We Heal is designed for high school students who are looking to get experience in behavioral mental health before graduating and entering the workforce. 

For those who are 18 years or older and have graduated from high school or an equivalent program, please look at our other programs designed for working adults.

A: Applications for future cohorts usually reopen in the Fall or Summer, and occasionally in the Spring! If you want us to reach out to you when applications are open, please complete the interest form linked here: (PRAP Interest form). Please also note that your school must be partnered with us for you to participate in the program. Completing the interest form will let you know if your school is currently a partner or not. If your school is not listed, we can work together to explore a potential partnership.

A: Depending on what classes are offered at your high school, you may be able to take some of the classes as part of your regular schedule. Any classes not available at your high school will be taken at your local community college, either online or in person. Check in with the Program Manager to discuss which classes are required for you.

A: Nearly the entire program can be completed online and asynchronously on your own schedule. The only in-person component is a one-hour volunteer experience in your community, which takes place during Week 17 of the asynchronous Hands-On Training (HOT) portion of the program.

A: Your Program Manager will be available via email, call, or video chat to support you with any questions or needs during the program. Quarterly in-person check-ins with your Program Manager will be held at your school and scheduled by your Program Manager and School Counselor, but check-ins can be completed virtually if needed. We also offer supportive service funds totaling up to $500 for students needing financial assistance for groceries, transportation costs, and more.

A: The Pre-Apprenticeship program allows you to earn college credit during high school, explore different careers in behavioral health, and get a jump start on behavioral health education, helping prepare you for future career opportunities in the field. Completing the Pre-Apprenticeship program can also count as experience toward the Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) credential or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential in or outside of our apprenticeship programs – a non-degree pathway for those who wish to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. Graduates of the Pre-Apprenticeship program are more competitive for other programs in our Career Pathway, including our Applied Bachelor’s program and Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), Master’s-level, program. All programs provide free education while you gain paid work experience in the behavioral health field.