Behavioral health services are more important than ever. Just last year, the American Psychological Association’s annual “Stress in America” survey polled 3,000 adults and found the majority felt stressed, isolated, and disconnected. The availability of mental health services, however, has declined in recent years. A 2021 study revealed that only half the adults with a mental health concern could access convenient care close to home.
Kinwell Primary Care recognized these challenges when it was established in 2021. That’s why it built an advanced primary care model that includes behavioral health services.
The integrated solution
The idea of integrating behavioral health into primary care—known as primary care behavioral health (PCBH)—has been around since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that the practice gained momentum. The Affordable Care Act of 2010 also promoted integrated whole-patient care that treated both physical and emotional well-being.
The PCBH approach normalizes behavioral treatment and recognizes the relationship of mind and body in patient health—and helps to address the shortage of behavioral health services in America. A 2025 report by the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis noted that the lack of mental health services is due to “supply and distribution challenges,” including a shortage of behavioral health providers outside major urban centers.
Increasing access across Washington state
Kinwell’s PCBH model offers behavioral health services at its 16 primary clinics across the state and extends care beyond office walls with virtual appointments. Kinwell’s online access builds on the telehealth experience that became standard during the COVID pandemic. One study revealed that less than 1% of behavioral health visits were held online before the pandemic and by 2022, almost 33% of the same appointments were held virtually. Online access allows established Kinwell patients to find primary care and behavioral health from anywhere in Washington state.
Whole-patient care
The integration of behavioral health into primary care isn’t simply a matter of staffing clinics with social workers and psychologists. The goal is to consider the patient’s physical and mental health holistically. Kinwell’s PCBH model recognizes that many physical conditions may have an underlying behavioral component such as a difficult relationship, stress at work, persistent depression, or substance misuse. Treating these related issues together can lead to better patient outcomes.
The importance of access
With a growing need for behavioral health services, and an increased understanding of the mind-body connection, the PCBH model become commonplace in primary care. Kinwell offers individual consultations and group appointments that explore such behavioral health topics like mindfulness and emotional regulation. These classes offer an opportunity to learn the latest science on coping skills, emotional well-being, and developing the tools to navigate difficult situations.
Talk to your Kinwell clinician to see if you could benefit from behavioral health services. New patients with Premera Blue Cross or LifeWise Health Plan of Washington coverage can schedule online or call 833-411-5469 for the latest appointment availability.
