June 8, 2026
Story by Joe Vinduska
Barton Community College is offering Mental Health Microcredentials designed to help learners build practical, job-ready skills for careers and advancement opportunities in mental health settings, with other subjects to be rolled out in the future.
Dean of Workforce Training and Community Education Dr. Kathy Kottas said Microcredentials are ideal for students exploring a career path, working professionals looking to upskill, individuals considering a career change, and lifelong learners focused on professional growth.
“These were specifically designed to be short-term, focused learning opportunities that provide specialized knowledge and real-world competencies without the longer time commitment of a traditional degree,” she said. “Our model also allows learners to combine stackable learning experiences into customized credential pathways that support their career goals.”
Kottas said working alongside industry partners is key to Barton’s mission when rolling out new products, so a collaboration with Larned State Hospital (LSH) was a great fit.
“These learning opportunities are very useful and relevant for individuals interested in working in a mental health setting to gain knowledge and skills that can help them grow in their position,” she said. “We built them in conjunction with LSH to ensure that the courses will enhance one’s ability to learn, grow, and be applied in the field of mental health.”
While mental health professionals are one group that can benefit from studying this subject, Kottas said it’s relevant across all industries.
"Whether you work in education, healthcare, business, public safety, customer service, or community services, mental health knowledge is becoming an essential workplace skill,” she said. “These Microcredentials help professionals better support the people they serve, work with, and lead every day."
This set of Microcredentials includes the Basic Mental Health Badge, the Mental Health Communications Badge, and the Patient Navigation for Mental Health Badge. Coursework includes topics such as general psychology, interpersonal communication, abnormal psychology, documentation and special report writing, communication in mental health, forensic psychology, trauma-informed care in behavioral health, and pharmacology for mental health.
Barton offers several benefits to Microcredential students, including small class sizes, interactive instruction, affordable learning options, and dedicated faculty support. Many courses use Open Educational Resources to reduce or eliminate textbook costs.
For more information, contact Coordinator of Student and Faculty Services Courtney Metcalf, at (620) 786-7480 or metcalfc@bartonccc.edu. More information is also available at microcredentials.bartonccc.edu.