Date of Conferral

5-16-2025

Date of Award

May 2025

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Susana Verdinelli

Abstract

The phenomenon of millennials resigning from mental health positions with little or no notice remains understudied, yet understanding it is essential for improving the consistency and effectiveness of care for individuals receiving mental health services. This generic qualitative study explored the work experiences of millennial mental health workers. The Strauss-Howe generational theory served as the theoretical framework, offering insight into how millennials’ work ethics, personal beliefs, and job expectations influenced their decisions to resign abruptly. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with nine participants, and thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and insights related to the research question. The study revealed five major themes that reflected the experiences of millennial mental health workers who resigned with little or no notice. Participants cited poor interpersonal dynamics with leadership, toxic organizational cultures, and overwhelming job stressors that often clashed with their personal values as key factors influencing their decisions to leave. Additional findings highlighted how the resignation process was shaped by self-preservation and ethical concerns, and how the COVID-19 pandemic further impacted working conditions and professional expectations in the mental health field. The study’s results may inform policy, procedural, and cultural shifts that are more responsive to the needs of millennial workers, thereby fostering positive social change in the mental health field. Enhancing retention among this group may reduce disruptions in the therapeutic relationship, providing clients with more consistent and effective care.

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