CSU Health Network uses an integrative team approach to look at physical, emotional, psychosocial and lifestyle factors that contribute to overall health and wellness, in order to provide the most comprehensive care to students.
Our Wellness & Behavioral Health Consultation program embeds mental health clinicians within the CSU Health Network medical teams, following a model of integrated health care which allows immediate access to wellness, behavioral health and mental health consultation and support for both patients and medical providers. The Wellness Consultants (BHCs) function as members of the medical care team and collaborate with medical staff in their daily provision of health care to CSU students. This integrative, “no wrong door” approach means that students have access to the support they need within the context of their medical care team, as an alternative to (or alongside) support from Counseling Services.
Wellness and behavioral health consultation is NOT therapy! Wellness Consultants (BHCs) are psychologists, social workers, and counselors who function as members of the student’s integrated health care team. These consultants talk with students to explore their concerns; provide brief, in-the-moment support; and work collaboratively with the student and their medical provider to come up with strategies to address the identified concerns.
Some of the concerns that students can address in collaboration with Wellness Consultants / BHCs include:
- Stress
- Sleep difficulties
- Changes in activity/energy levels
- Mood-related concerns, depression, anxiety
- Grief, loss, transitions, adjustment difficulties
- Sexual concerns
- Chronic pain
- Managing chronic health conditions
- Medication and medical treatment adherence
- Mild eating concerns
- Unhealthy lifestyles and habits, establishing new routines
- Concerns about substance use
- Communication, assertion, and conflict resolution skills
- Social, relational, emotional concerns impacting health & wellbeing (i.e. isolation, limited supports)
- Aspects of identity, marginalization, resource scarcity or social justice that impact health & wellbeing
- Stigma or hesitation re: engaging with counseling or other mental health supports
- Self-care and self-management goals