Mental health services are more important than ever right now. According to The American Psychological Association’s latest “Stress in America” survey, the majority of 3,000 adults said they feel increasingly stressed, isolated, and disconnected. Despite this rising need, access to mental health services has declined in recent years and a 2021 study revealed that only half of the adults with mental health concerns were able to access timely care.
What is integrated behavioral health?
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. Kinwell Primary Care recognized these challenges when it was established in 2021. That’s why it built an advanced primary care model that includes mental and behavioral health services.
Primary care behavioral health vs. mental health care
The PCBH approach normalizes behavioral treatment and recognizes the relationship of mind and body in patient health—and provides a necessary solution to 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.
Primary care is more than just annual physicals
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 home and work, persistent depression, or substance misuse. Treating these related issues together can lead to better patient outcomes and it starts with an annual wellness exam.
Improving access to mental health services near you
Kinwell’s PCBH model offers behavioral health services at 16 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 Kinwell patients to find primary care and behavioral health from anywhere in Washington state.
Building a better legacy for primary care in Washington
With a growing need for behavioral health services, and an increased understanding of the mind-body connection, the PCBH model may be the future of primary care. Kinwell also offers group appointments that explore behavioral health topics like mindfulness, healthy positivity, and emotional regulation. Led by Alix Jansma, LMHC, these classes offer an opportunity to learn the latest science around coping skills, emotional well-being, and developing tools to navigate difficult situations. Talk to your Kinwell clinician to see if you could benefit from behavioral health services. Schedule your next appointment at http://www.kinwellhealth.com/appointments.
