Bridging the Gap Between Primary and Mental Health Care

At Gunnison Valley Health’s Family Medicine Clinic, social worker Maria Rognon LSW, serves as a vital connection between primary care and behavioral health. By identifying mental health concerns early and connecting people to the appropriate care and resources, she helps ensure people get the care they need, when they need it. 

As an integrated part of the primary care team, Maria works alongside physicians, nurses and other providers to make behavioral health a routine part of overall wellness. Her presence during routine medical visits allows patients to receive timely support for issues such as anxiety, depression and stress—often before symptoms escalate. 

“Being part of the primary care team allows me to build trust with patients,” Maria said. “They see me as part of their overall care, which makes them more comfortable sharing what they’re going through.” 

In addition to providing in-the-moment support, Maria helps patients navigate longer-term mental health care. She connects individuals to counseling, psychiatric services and community-based programs, ensuring they continue to receive help beyond the clinic setting. 

“Our goal is to make mental health care feel more accessible and less overwhelming,” she said. “When patients know they have someone walking beside them, it’s easier to take that first step.” 

Maria also helps address social determinants of health - such as housing, financial stress and lack of support systems – that can affect mental well-being. By connecting patients with community resources, she helps reduce barriers that often stand in the way of better mental health. 

“Mental health isn’t just about what’s happening internally—it’s influenced by the world around us,” she said. “By recognizing that, we can provide more complete care.” 

This whole-person approach improves outcomes. Patients are more likely to follow through with behavioral health services when referrals come from trusted providers they already know. 

“Early intervention is key,” Maria said. “When we catch concerns early, we can often prevent them from becoming crises.” 

Gunnison Valley Health’s integrated model brings together physical and mental health services in one cohesive care experience. With professionals like Maria embedded in the care team, patients receive support for every part of their health journey. 

“Our patients appreciate having someone to talk to about more than just physical symptoms,” Maria said. “It’s rewarding to be part of a system that sees and supports the whole person, and I strive to make mental health be as routine and accessible as physical health.”