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Wellness and Behavioral Health Consultation

“Care for the body and mind” is the guiding principle within the CSU Health Network. This philosophy is clearly embodied in the integrated treatment team approach utilized in the CSUHN Medical Center.

Our Wellness/Behavioral Health Consultation team consists of trained mental health clinicians (see “Meet the Team” below) who function as part of the Integrated Care medical team. The Behavioral Health Consultants (BHCs) work alongside the medical providers to provide CSU students immediate, effective consultation regarding a wide variety of concerns.

What is “Integrated Care?”

In an Integrated Care model, BHCs and medical providers function as a team, working together in the same physical space to create and implement a healthcare plan tailored to your specific needs.

What exactly does “Behavioral Health” mean?

Behavioral health addresses the connection between your behaviors and the health of your mind and body. This model provides research-proven strategies to help you identify and improve the way your habits affect your mental/physical health and overall wellness.

How is Behavioral Health different than traditional therapy?

  • Behavioral Health consultations are brief (appointments are typically 10-30 minutes), time-limited (range from 1-5 appointments), address one primary concern, and are solution focused.
  • Traditional therapy provides care for those needing services at a higher intensity (significant mental health concerns or multiple concerns), appointments are longer (usually 50-60 minutes), and typically continues until mental health concerns are resolved.

How do I know if Behavioral Health is right for me?

Interested in receiving assistance with your mental/physical health concerns? Talk with your provider. They can help you decide if a consultation with a BHC is appropriate.

The good news is there is no “wrong choice”- if working with a BHC is not the best match for your needs, we can help get you to the program(s) best suited for your concerns. 

How much does a Wellness/Behavioral Health Consultation cost?

This service is considered part of your primary care appointment, therefore there is no additional charge. 

Are Wellness/Behavioral Health Consultations effective? 

 Short answer- yes! Research clearly shows working with a BHC leads to:

  • Improved patient outcomes
    • Specifically improved outcomes among racially and ethnically diverse patient populations
  • Decrease in overall patient distress
    • significant improvement in depression, anxiety, substance use, etc.
  • Improved patient satisfaction with care
  • improved access to mental health care reduced wait times

How do I start working with a BHC?

  • Talk with your medical provider during your appointment. Immediate BHC appointments are usually available.
  • Call 970-491-7121 and ask to schedule an appointment with a BHC.

Behavioral Health Consultants are available Monday-Friday 8a-5p.


Who are the “Behavioral Health Care Consultants?”

Shana Ryken, MSW

Types of concerns that can be addressed in a Behavioral Health Consultation:

  • Adjustment difficulties
  • Anxiety
  • Aspects of identity/marginalization/resource scarcity or social justice that impact health and wellbeing
  • Changes in activity/energy levels
  • Chronic pain
  • Communication, assertion, and conflict resolution skills
  • Concerns about food
  • Concerns about substance use
  • Depression
  • Grief/loss
  • Identity/social justice concerns affecting wellbeing
  • Managing chronic health conditions
  • Medication and medical treatment adherence
  • Mood related concerns
  • Self-care and self-management goals
  • Sexual concerns
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Social and relational concerns impacting health & wellbeing (i.e., isolation, limited supports)
  • Stress
  • Unhealthy lifestyles and habits/establishing new routines

Mental Health  Resources for Students

CSU Health Network provides numerous resources to help students learn how to improve mental health, manage stress and minimize anxiety.