Message from the Dean/Director

At the Wayne State University School of Social Work, we are deeply committed to advancing social justice and ensuring that all individuals and communities receive the care and support they deserve. This commitment is clearly reflected in the work of the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice (CBHJ) whose mission is to provide actionable data, research, and collaborative support to help community partners create effective solutions at the behavioral health / criminal legal intersection.

The CBHJ team has practical, real-world expertise working across all stages of the criminal legal continuum. They understand the multiple perspectives and have listened to the concerns of community partners from law enforcement, jail administration, courts, community mental health, probation/parole, general health care, and those with lived experiences interacting within these systems. The CBHJ works with them to facilitate solutions by integrating cross-system data and assessing current practice, implementing new interventions and ensuring continuity of care. 

The CBHJ’s approach is focused on preventing and diverting individuals with mental health or substance use disorders from entering the criminal justice system. We aim to support people and strengthen communities by addressing challenges early and effectively. As part of the Wayne State University School of Social Work, we bring a distinct social work lens to our work at the CBHJ, ensuring that care and dignity are at the center of our efforts to improve outcomes.

As external facilitators, we provide collaborative technical assistance to our community partners to empower them to adopt solutions that drive systemic change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, equity, innovation, and responsiveness, we remain committed to delivering high-impact, community-based care to those most in need.

Our vision, mission, purpose, and values, updated in the fall of 2024, guide our efforts to spark systemic change. I look forward to continuing the work with our partners to build a society where behavioral health concerns are addressed proactively, in ways that optimize well-being across all settings.

Engaging students in this work is essential for developing the next generation of leaders in social work, public health, and justice reform. Whether through hands-on learning experiences, involvement in research or publications, employment after graduation, or participation in community initiatives, our students play a vital role in shaping the future of our field.
 

Sheryl Kubiak
Director, Center for Behavioral Health and Justice
Dean, Wayne State University School of Social Work