In this podcast discussion, our host, Chris Hemphill speaks with Suzanne Kunis, President and CEO of NovaWell. They explore the innovations NovaWell is bringing to the behavioral health space, emphasizing the importance of integrated care that treats individuals holistically rather than isolating physical and mental health issues. 

Suzanne shares her journey in developing a strategy that incorporates community mental health principles and addresses access to care, especially for those with serious mental illness and substance use disorders. She highlights the success of their initiatives, underscoring the importance of treating people as whole individuals and providing accessible, comprehensive care.

Key Takeaways:

1. A focus on treating individuals holistically by an integrated care approach 
2. How NovaWell’s collaboration with community mental health organizations has created care models that ensure comprehensive care, addressing not only health but also social determinants
3. Chris and Suzanne discuss their own stories, highlighting that nearly everyone is affected by mental health issues, with the aim of normalizing the conversation