Upon entering the CMHC program, referral and coordination of care were not subjects at the forefront of my mind. While I sought to be a therapist, I was not yet aware of how critical these prinicples are to the work I was wishing to do. Throughout the program, opportunity to learn more about how this competency fits into care became evident through anectdotal evidence shared by professors, TA's and students alike.

After joining the PEP Program and embarking on my Integrated Behavioral Health certificate, I was able to see how critical compiling resources, referrals and ultimately, collaboration is for our patients. Through my placement at the Tranisitional Care Clinic for internship, I have been able to see how a collaborative approach between providers opens up doors for patients that feel they have no hope. Utilizing services like Case Management, Peer Support and Crisis Response, has provided avenues for patients to feel more supported through their crisis. 

While working with a patient in my internship, I noticed that they were struggling with bills and had a difficult time affording their medication. Through collaboration with our Case Managment services, we were able to get them bil assistance and a discount card to help with the cost of their medications. While not every site is as integrated as this one, I was able to gain insight into multiple resources such as, Catholic Charities bill assistance and Good Rx to help patients with their basic needs. 

Through this experience, I have been able to see the importance in having these resources in one place. As I seek to utilize my portfolio throughout my career, I have added frequently used resources for food, shelter and bill assistance below. This will provide a space I can consistently return to as I seek to assist patients in the future.