Emphasis: Primary Care Behavioral Health

Primary Care Behavioral Health (PCBH) is an evidence-based model of Integrated Behavioral Health in the primary care settings. PCBH aims to improve provider satisfaction, improve patient experience, reduce cost of care, and improve the health of the population. The model has been shown to be particularly useful in rural healthcare settings. The PCBH emphasis will prepare clinicians to work in the primary care setting as Behavioral Health Consultants (BHC). BHCs must be prepared to work with the youngest of children through the oldest adults and address the whole scope of behavioral health concerns which includes substance abuse, mental health, and lifestyle issues. BHCs do this work in the Primary Care setting using brief interventions as a part of the healthcare team. Through coursework and clinical experience, students will become competent in the following skills: brief intervention, pathway services, documentation, consultation, team performance, practice management, and administrative skills and knowledge.