The BRIDGE Program
AMI's flagship workforce development initiative — connecting neurodivergent individuals and emerging behavioral health professionals with supported, affirming career pathways throughout Will County.
Program Goals
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🌱Expand the neurodiversity-affirming workforce in Will County
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🎓Improve access to workforce training and supported employment
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🏥Increase retention of mental health professionals serving local communities
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🚧Reduce barriers to employment for neurodivergent individuals
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🤝Strengthen inclusive workplace practices among local employers
Beyond Short-Term Placement
Unlike traditional workforce programs, BRIDGE focuses on long-term workforce sustainability rather than short-term placement. Participants receive individualized support, employer advocacy, and continued guidance designed to promote independence, confidence, and long-term career growth.
"BRIDGE is built on the belief that the right support at the right time creates lasting change — not just for the individual, but for the entire community."
Choose Your Pathway
The BRIDGE Program offers three distinct tracks designed to meet participants where they are and support them toward long-term career success.
Who This Track Supports
- Neurodivergent individuals seeking meaningful employment
- Individuals facing barriers to workforce participation
- Non-traditional students and first-generation college students
About This Track
The BRIDGE Program is AMI's workforce development initiative designed to support individuals who have historically experienced barriers in traditional employment settings. We combine structured training with compassionate, individualized support to help participants build confidence and sustainable careers.
What Participants Receive
- Structured training and workforce readiness education
- Supervised placements with neurodiversity-affirming employers
- Mentorship and ongoing professional guidance
- Transportation support
- Ongoing employer collaboration and retention support
- Long-term career development planning
Who This Track Supports
- Bachelor's-level mental health trainees
- Master's-level counseling and social work interns
- Emerging behavioral health professionals
- Non-traditional and first-generation graduate students
- Individuals seeking neurodiversity-affirming training environments
- Trainees requiring structured support during practicum or internship placement
About This Track
The BRIDGE Program supports bachelor's- and master's-level mental health trainees seeking neurodiversity-affirming, community-based training experiences throughout Will County and surrounding Illinois communities. BRIDGE was designed to strengthen the behavioral health workforce by providing structured supervision, supported field placements, and workforce development opportunities for emerging professionals entering counseling, social work, psychology, behavioral health, and related helping professions.
What Participants Receive
- Supervised internship and practicum placements
- Neurodiversity-affirming clinical mentorship
- Workforce readiness and professional development
- Ethical and inclusive care training
- Community-based learning opportunities
- Employer and placement collaboration
- Ongoing support designed to improve retention and long-term success within the behavioral health field
By investing in emerging professionals, BRIDGE helps strengthen access to mental health and behavioral health services for Will County residents while supporting the next generation of inclusive providers.
Who This Is For
AMI actively partners with employers, businesses, educational institutions, nonprofits, and community organizations throughout Will County that are committed to building inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming workplaces and workforce opportunities.
What Partnership Looks Like
- Host supervised employment placements for BRIDGE participants
- Access C.A.R.E. at Work employer training and consultation
- Collaborate on inclusive hiring and retention strategies
- Connect with a network of neurodiversity-affirming organizations
- Strengthen your organization's commitment to disability-inclusive workforce practices
Through collaborative partnerships with employers, community organizations, and educational institutions, BRIDGE helps expand inclusive workforce opportunities while strengthening long-term community access, participation, and economic stability throughout Will County.
Ready to Apply?
Each BRIDGE track has its own dedicated application. Select the pathway that matches your goals to get started.
Workforce Pathways
For neurodivergent individuals seeking structured training, supported employment, and individualized career development.
Apply for Workforce Pathways →Mental Health Therapists
For bachelor's- and master's-level behavioral health trainees seeking neurodiversity-affirming supervised placements.
Apply for Mental Health Track →Not sure which track is right for you? Contact AMI and we'll help you find your pathway.
Questions Before Applying?
We're happy to answer any questions about the BRIDGE Program and help you find the right pathway.