Dr. Sarah Shelton, Spalding University
Dr. Steve Katsikas, Spalding University
Heather Dombrowski, M.A. , Spalding University
Edna Osei Owusu M.A., M.S. , Spalding University
Bailey DeSpain, M.A. , Spalding University
Sarah Denen, M.A., Spalding University
John Penezic, M.A. , Spalding University
An innovative HRSA-funded training initiative will be highlighted in which advanced doctoral level students in clinical psychology receive didactic training on Integrated Primary Care (IPC) paralleled with supervised fieldwork. The trainees apply their knowledge and skill set acquired using a Behavioral Health Consultant (BHC) model in the form of direct patient care while simultaneously training healthcare professionals from other disciplines via the same model. Using the Training of Trainers (ToT) model, the learners become not only direct patient care providers utilizing the BHC model but also facilitators of learning for the other healthcare professionals on their primary care teams including physicians, dentists, nurse practitioners, physicians assistants, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare workers. Integrated Primary Care is an approach that combines physical and behavioral health services to address the full spectrum of patients’ clinical presentations. A Behavioral Health Consultant works directly with patients to help them make changes to improve their overall health by addressing psychosocial determinants of health while simultaneously supporting the team to enhance collaboration. This leads to more effective and efficient patient care, increased healthcare worker satisfaction, reduced provider burnout, and better patient health outcomes. Examples of ToT didactic instruction and parallel clinical field learning opportunities will be presented conceptually. Brief case vignettes from real-life teaching and learning experiences will be highlighted with an opportunity for audience engagement through interactive discussion and role play exercises.
