Expanding Access to Care
Integrated behavioral health is an innovative model designed to expand access to behavioral health services by integrating behavioral health therapists with primary or specialty care clinics. Licensed behavioral health professionals collaborate with physicians and nurses to bridge the gap between medical and mental wellness. The integrated model recognizes that physical health and mental wellness are not separate. They are deeply linked. Behavioral health challenges – like depression, post-traumatic stress or anxiety, among others – can cause physical symptoms. Likewise, physical illnesses can have a significant effect on mental health. Bringing Inova’s behavioral health expertise into medical clinics across the system is a convenient and effective way to address these connections.
As a result, patients have convenient access to care focused on improving their physical and mental well-being co-located with Inova’s primary care provider offices across 17 different office locations. Licensed therapists are available for consultation as needed as well as short-term, solution-focused therapy by appointment.
To make an appointment, patients must have a provider referral. Patients who have a referral can call the provider’s office directly to make an appointment.