Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., is expanding behavioral health services across Southwest Florida to address a growing demand for mental health care, while also creating new employment opportunities for qualified professionals.
The initiative includes adding more behavioral health staff, expanding service locations, and introducing new virtual counseling options to ensure individuals and families have timely, confidential access to care. Catholic Charities currently provides tele-mental health counseling for adults and children at no cost, with services delivered by licensed mental health therapists.
To meet staffing needs, the organization will host three virtual interview sessions for behavioral health professionals: Wednesday, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. to noon and 3 to 4 p.m., and Friday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon. Interested candidates can learn more and register through the Diocese of Venice in Florida website.
The expansion also aligns with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ new “Healing and Hope” program, part of the National Catholic Mental Health Campaign. The effort encourages parishes to raise awareness of mental health issues during World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, with prayers during Masses the weekend of Oct. 11-12. A Novena for Mental Health will also be offered nationwide from Oct. 10-18.
Catholic Charities serves 10 counties in Southwest Florida, offering a wide range of support including health and human services, food pantries, housing assistance, legal aid, and disaster response. Founded in 1984, the nonprofit’s mission is to provide help, create hope, and serve all through programs rooted in compassion, dignity, and respect.
For more information on Catholic Charities behavioral health services, call 239-455-2655 or visit catholiccharitiesdov.org/behavioral-health-center. Details on the USCCB campaign can be found at usccb.org/mental-health.
