Hi! My name is Jessica Leatham, and I am a nontraditional online student at Old Dominion University. I am a senior set to graduate in December 2024 with a degree in Health Services Administration with a minor in Management after completing my internship with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in the Office of Financial Resources. I will be forty this September, and I am thrilled to be moving forward in my life. I have had a few chapters of life so far, such as a four-year term in the U.S. Army as a movement control manager, eight years with the U.S. Post Office in various capacities, and a full-time mom of two amazing kids entering their teenage years.
My goals for this term are completing my SAMHSA internship and graduating with my Bachelor’s degree.
Provide a brief overview of your internship site.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation.
- The name, physical location, and type of organization.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- 5600 Fishers Ln, Rockville, MD 20852
- Federal agency
• A brief history of the organization, including its mission/vision/goals/objectives.
o History: Congress established the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in 1992 to make substance use and mental disorder information, services, and research more accessible.
o Background: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation and to improve the lives of individuals living with mental and substance use disorders, and their families.
o Mission: SAMHSA’s mission is to lead public health and service delivery efforts that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and provide treatments and supports to foster recovery while ensuring equitable access and better outcomes.
o Vision: SAMHSA envisions that people with, affected by, or at risk for mental health and substance use conditions receive care, achieve well-being, and thrive.
- Short background information on your preceptor:
- Theresa Jumento, PhD, MPA, Senior Advisor, Office of Financial Integration Strategy, Office of Financial Resources, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.