Simucase lauded by EDUCAUSE for behavioral and mental health library

Simucase’s behavioral and mental health library has been selected by EDUCAUSE as an exemplar project. 

This recognition is featured in the 2024 Horizon Report | Teaching and Learning Edition. 

EDUCAUSE is a nonprofit association with the goal of advancing higher education through the use of information technology. Each year, EDUCAUSE publishes a series of Horizon Reports that highlights the trends and innovations that are shaping the future of higher education across key categories.

Simucase is included in this year’s report for its commitment to addressing mental health through simulation. The recognized project—Simucase’s behavioral and mental health library—is designed to meet the growing needs of learners in various professions who are preparing to provide these services. 

“We are honored to be recognized by EDUCAUSE for our training in behavioral and mental health services,” said Maura Lavelle, director of simulation development. 

“Learners today face challenges with obtaining the necessary practice and skills to confidently provide behavioral and mental health services to their clients upon graduation. Simucase equips learners to safely and effectively navigate complex clinical scenarios.”

To illustrate how learners use Simucase to practice providing mental health services, the report highlighted two universities: Yeshiva University, where social work students use simulations to enhance advanced practice skills, and East Carolina University, where occupational therapy students use simulation-based learning during a supervised mental health fieldwork experience.

“Simucase allows learners to experience cases that include sensitive topics, uncomfortable conversations, and crisis situations,” Lavelle said. “By participating in these robust practice experiences, learners are better equipped to competently support the mental health needs of their clients and communities.”