The Altshuler Center for Education and Research

Overview

Metrocare’s Altshuler Center for Education and Research (ACER) is the premier training and research institute for community mental health professionals across Texas. ACER was founded in 2011 based on a unique partnership between Metrocare Services and UT Southwestern Medical Center. We also have relationships with colleges and universities throughout the US. ACER offers training for physicians, psychologists, advanced nurse practitioners, social workers, behavioral analysts, counselors, marriage and family therapists, and other professionals interested in high-impact experiential learning opportunities in community mental health.

In addition to training the behavioral health workforce of the future, ACER’s nationally renowned researchers lead the way in advancing innovative new treatment methods for mental health. Trainees who wish to be involved in community-based clinical research can explore opportunities with our Research Office.

Informing and inspiring the next generation of community mental health professionals.

Nurse Photo

Training

ACER training includes internships, practicums, medical residency programs, fellowships, and other high-impact experiential learning opportunities. We have more than ten potential training sites and numerous specialty programs providing services for children, adolescents, adults, and families.

ACER is leading the way in training qualified professionals, incentivizing these professionals to enter the mental health profession, and assisting in meeting the increased need for mental health services.

Application Information

Applications for training programs are accepted during the periods below. To request an application, please:

Apply here.

General Training Programs:
Spring 2025: Applications are accepted October 1, 2024 – October 15, 2024
Summer 2025: Applications are accepted March 1, 2025 – April 15, 2025
Fall 2025: Application are accepted June 1, 2025 – June 15, 2025

Advanced Nurse Practitioner Students:
Winter 2024: Applications are accepted September 1, 2024 – October 15, 2024
Spring 2025: Applications are accepted September 15, 2024 – October 15, 2024
Summer 2025: Application are accepted March 1, 2025 – April 15, 2025
Fall 2025: Applications are accepted June 1, 2025-June 15, 2025

Clinical Internships (Social Work Undergraduate/Graduate and Counseling Graduate Students)
Spring 2025: Applications are accepted October 1, 2024 – October 15, 2024
Summer 2025: Applications are accepted April 1, 2025 – April 15, 2025 (Summer applications are for current Metrocare Employees ONLY)
Fall 2025: Applications are accepted June 1, 2025 – June 15, 2025

For any questions, please contact us at acer@metrocareservices.org

ACER – Altshuler Center for Education & Research

1345 River Bend Dr, Suite 200
Dallas, Texas 75247
214-743-1202
View Location

Research

ACER has a strong track record of research collaboration across many academic institutions, including University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. Research topics such as:

  • Enhanced Program for Early Psychosis

  • Disaster Mental Health

  • Homelessness & Domestic Violence

  • Suicide Risk Screening

ACER is committed to providing an environment that supports clinical research in a real world setting that can lead to treatment innovations to support the community we serve.

Education

ACER is committed to providing multifaceted educational programs and outreach that contribute to the workforce development needs of community mental health professionals and the wellbeing and support of community partners.

Education Partners

We value our partnership with education institutions across the country. If interested in partnering with ACER for student training, please email us here.

Stay connected

Sign up for our newsletter