Iowa Primary Care Association’s Behavioral Health Services Addresses the Interconnectedness of Mental Health Issues and Daily Living Obstacles

“Housing is ranked as the number two concern among callers who need our behavioral health system navigation services,” said Aaron Todd, Chief Executive Officer of the Iowa PCA. “If you only address one issue but not the related concerns, the road to success is rockier. That’s what sets our system navigation services apart. We’re addressing that key issue and those other concerns as well. That holistic approach helps set up a smooth path to success.”

The Iowa PCA’s Behavioral Health Services focus on building a full behavioral health continuum that includes prevention, early intervention, treatment, recovery and crisis services. While mental health is the top concern when people reach out, the second most common concern noted is housing followed by substance use concerns.

“Most of these issues are related to each other. In order for an individual’s issue to be positively resolved or improved, we have to look at the comprehensive picture,” said Abbey Ferenzi, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services at the Iowa PCA. “An individual’s behavioral health needs are rarely isolated, so these complex problems require complex solutions. That is why our system navigators across the state work to address an array of issues that go beyond mental health and behavioral services.”

The team at Iowa PCA knows that an individual’s behavioral health needs are often complex and rarely isolated to one event or circumstance. Situations of housing instability, substance use, loss or other daily living concerns are often interconnected with behavioral health. In order to provide the most comprehensive support, Iowa PCA looks at all drivers of behavioral health in an individual’s life.

In cases of housing instability, the team works with local partners that help those experiencing housing insecurity.

“Our team recently served a woman with a young child who was struggling with mental health concerns and had recently lost her home,” said Ferenzi. “Mom and child needed a safe haven and health care services as quickly as possible.”

The Iowa PCA’s Behavioral Health Services team quickly collaborated and pooled their knowledge of area behavioral health providers, shelters and resources. They worked with the woman’s health coverage provider and rushed referrals. A team member even joined the woman during phone calls with various specialists, helping her understand her options and providing education and support.

“We want people to know they are not alone. We’re here for them and with them, finding answers and options, making calls and connections, and always listening to their needs,” Ferenzi said. “

One week later, mother and child were safely housed and connected with habilitation services designed to help people with chronic mental illness build life skills and independence.

“That’s our goal – to be that trusted hub of compassion and expertise that connects Iowans to the supports they need, when they need it,” Todd said.

The Iowa PCA’s statewide Behavioral Health Services team works with community partners, organizations and healthcare providers to ensure quality and consistency. That includes addressing those who call in experiencing housing insecurity.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, or other behavioral health concerns, resources are available 24/7 at YourLifeIowa.org or by calling 855-581-8111 or texting 855-895-8398. Healthcare providers and community-based organizations serving individuals with behavioral health needs can connect with the Iowa PCA’s system navigation services at 515-505-8988.