In today’s fast-paced environment, achieving a state of holistic health and wellbeing has become more crucial than ever. As a comprehensive approach, integrated health practices consider the interconnectedness of our physical, mental, and emotional wellness.
“Integrated care is whole-person care. It focuses treatment and interventions on the individual’s diverse needs in an effort to improve health outcomes,” shares Michelle Joo, LPC, MPH, Director of Oaks’ Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic in Burlington County. Integrated health presents a unique approach as it incorporates a diverse group of team members to establish a comprehensive treatment plan for each individual. Through harmonizing the various aspects of care, integrated health empowers individuals to lead balanced, fulfilling lives.
“Sustained stability is best achieved when we work to address any barriers to care such as food insecurity, transportation, medical needs, and housing,” she adds. “An integrated model considers the social determinants of health and non-medical factors in a person’s life and in effort to achieve a greater quality of life.”
The integrated mental and physical health services model of care is at the forefront of healthcare. Michelle explains, “Oaks has implemented the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic across several counties. The model encompasses a continuum of care that engages behavioral health professionals, medical professionals, individuals with lived experience and key stakeholders in treatment alongside the person served. This team works together to create a care plan and identify the most effective treatment with the individual as the driver to their plan.”
This team-based approach considers the numerous elements of health and enables a better understanding of individuals’ needs. Our clients have access to a variety of health care services in a seamless and consistent way. She shares, “Mental and physical health are no longer viewed as isolated areas of health, but as a part of an individual’s overall wellness.”
Integrated care remains at the root of all Oaks services. Oaks offers caring, compassionate programs for adults, children and families living with a mental illness or addiction. Our programs throughout New Jersey give individuals the opportunity to make healthy choices, stabilize symptoms of illness and eventually reach his or her full potential. To learn more about services or schedule an appointment, call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377.
