SZN. 3 Ep. 15/ Come Together: Mental and Physical Health As One
Come Together: Mental and Physical Health As One
by: Heather Olsson, LCPC and Matt Toman, FNP-C
Come Together: Mental and Physical Health as One
When I think about the future of healthcare, one of the things I’m most excited about is the growing movement to bring mental and physical health together as a unified approach to wellness. At Naperville Ellie Mental Health, we’re constantly asking ourselves how we can make sure we’re treating the whole person, and that’s why working with amazing professionals (I may be biased) like Matt Toman, a Nurse Practitioner at Just Breathe Mental Health, is so inspiring.
Here are some fun sneak peeks for listeners who tune into our podcast episode
1. Behind-the-Scenes Stories: We’ll share real-life experiences from our work, like the unforgettable moments that shaped our approach to integrated care and the lessons we learned along the way.
2. Exclusive Insights: You’ll hear Matt and I dive deep into how physical and mental health are linked, including tips on how you can advocate for your client’s well-being when navigating the healthcare system.
3. Case Study Discussions: We’ll talk through compelling case studies (with confidentiality in mind, of course!) to show how our integrated approach has made a real difference in people’s lives.
Why Collaboration Matters
Here’s why this partnership between the mental health field and the physical health field works so well: the vision of integrated care. Think about it this way: if someone is dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma but also has a chronic physical condition, it’s impossible to separate their mental and physical experiences. They’re woven together. By collaborating, professionals like Matt and I can provide a seamless approach that addresses both sides of the equation.
Imagine a client who struggles with migraines and intense anxiety. Traditionally, they might see separate specialists who don’t necessarily communicate with each other. But in our model, therapy and medication management work hand-in-hand. I can offer therapeutic support, and Matt can adjust or recommend medication options that take into account the person’s physical and emotional needs. It’s interdisciplinary care that just makes sense.
What This Means for Our Clients
For me, this collaboration isn’t just about professional alignment; it’s personal. At Naperville Ellie Mental Health, I’ve seen firsthand how much more effective we can be when we take an interdisciplinary view. Working with professionals like Matt Toman allows us to break down barriers between different areas of care, making sure clients feel fully supported.
If someone is hesitant to try therapy or medication, knowing that our team is committed to working together for their well-being can make all the difference. It feels safer, more cohesive, and ultimately more empowering.
Looking Ahead I believe the future of care lies in this kind of integrated model, where professionals from different disciplines come together to address the whole person. Matt and I are excited to keep exploring what this looks like, learning from our clients, and finding new ways to support people in living healthier, happier lives. We’re just getting started, but I’m hopeful.
Every day, I see how treating mental and physical health as one unified system can transform lives. If you’re curious about this kind of care or want to learn more, reach out to us at Naperville Ellie Mental Health or Just Breathe Mental Health. We’d love to walk this journey with you, making sure you feel fully seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.
