This post was written by Matt Givens, LMFT, behavioral health consultant, PPG - Family Medicine.
Over the years, patients have relied more on their primary care physicians for mental health treatment, often bypassing individual therapy. The referral process to specialty mental health can be difficult and we frequently see very low completion.
The behavioral health consultant (BHC) is a multifaceted role inspired by the need for a more integrative patient-centered approach to healthcare. Within the enhanced primary care model, we operate at the intersections of primary and mental health care, along with a care navigator and pharmacist. Lab and pharmacy services are also onsite at the Parkview Physicians Group (PPG) clinic at Electric Works (located at 1660 Broadway St., Suite 165). This gives patients access to a team of providers who can address some of the common mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression.
My position focuses mainly on brief interventions through implementing aspects of more goal-directed techniques such as problem-solving. We collaborate with patients on developing personal action plans and follow up with them to help monitor their progress, as well as identify and evaluate potential barriers that may be obstructing their success.
Benefits of the enhanced primary care team model
One of the key advantages of having a BHC embedded within the primary care team is that we offer patients a more seamless coordination of services. They can address many of their concerns without going to various locations. This approach also helps lighten the amount of time doctors might spend addressing mental health concerns and transfers it to team members with specialized training.
Because our care is more focused, we are often able to meet with individuals quickly, sometimes even on the same day if needed. Even if we can’t consult with them immediately, having that close proximity provides the opportunity for us to at least introduce ourselves and begin building that connection. We can determine if we offer services that may benefit their unique situation and if not, we can help direct them to other community resources that may better fit their needs.
Helping patient outcomes
A BHC can collaborate with physicians to go beyond the physical complaints that may have brought a patient into the clinic by exploring and addressing the behavioral and emotional components that could be exacerbating their health issues. During this process, we consider symptoms the patient might be experiencing associated with various chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and how we can manage that discomfort or risk while also improving skills to effectively manage emotional and behavioral difficulties such as anger, anxiety, bereavement, depression and stress.
Behavioral consultant versus traditional therapist
The services provided by a BHC are part of the enhanced care model and are not meant to resemble or replace traditional mental health therapy, but instead are meant to work in conjunction with each other. Sessions with a BHC emphasize actionable goals in your current situation. This could include improving medication compliance, building action plans to increase activity or identifying strategies to manage current life adjustments. If at any point we determine during treatment the patient would benefit from a higher level or more specific form of mental health treatment, we offer a referral for recommended services in coordination with the individual’s care team.
For more information about Enhanced Primary Care visit our website here or to speak with a behavioral health consultant about non-emergent issues, call 260-266-9805.
Parkview Behavioral Health Institute (PBHI) also provides numerous mental health services that can help you make a positive impact on your emotional well-being or recovery from substance abuse. Call the PHBI Helpline at 260-471-9440 or toll free at 800-284-8439, anytime 24 hours to have a confidential assessment or find behavioral health services near you.
