Integrated Behavioral Health

A behavioral health consultant is a psychologist or clinical social worker who works directly with the primary care team. Behavioral health consultants can help patients:

• Address emotional or behavioral problems like family or relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, developmental questions, stress, sleep problems, loss and grief, anxiety, ADHD, depression or anger problems.  
• Develop plans for making healthy changes, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, reducing alcohol use, increasing physical activity, and improving other lifestyle habits.
• Manage and reduce symptoms related to chronic conditions such as headaches, chronic pain, diabetes, asthma, COPD, hypertension, and irritable bowel syndrome. 

How do I get an appointment?  

Call your primary care provider. Appointments are available with a referral from your primary care provider. When possible, your primary care provider will try to arrange a same-day appointment. However, the first visit with a behavioral health consultant is typically scheduled within 1–5 days.

What can I expect during a visit?  

• The first appointment will typically be 20–30 minutes and will focus on understanding your physical and emotional health concerns and developing possible solutions.You will typically have 1-4 visits.  
• If long-term behavioral health services are recommended, you will be referred to the Mankato Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology. The behavioral health consultant will also work with your primary care provider if other types of services are recommended.