Role & Scope of a MHSU Consultant

What is a PCN Mental Health and Substance Use Consultant?

The South Island Primary Care Network Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) Consultant provides an advanced platform for family physicians, nurse practitioners, and other primary care providers to connect patients with mild to moderate mental health and substance use concerns to a specialized clinician.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a health-related discipline from an accredited post-secondary institution
• Minimum of two years of recent, relevant experience, including post-basic education related to mental illness. This experience should encompass crisis intervention, urgent response, short-term therapy, and group psychotherapy, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• In-depth understanding of mental health and substance use issues, including substance use assessments, the change process, community dynamics, and the impacts of social determinants of health
• Knowledge of relevant legislation such as the Mental Health Act and the Adult Guardianship Act
• Experience working collaboratively with primary care providers
• A valid BC’s driver’s license

Role Overview

The PCN MHSU Consultant engages extensively with primary care providers and refers clients to community resources as needed, addressing the psychosocial and social determinants affecting mental health and substance use.
 

As a PCN MHSU Consultant, your responsibilities may include:

• Support to physicians and nurse practitioners:

  • Collaborate on team-based care planning
  • Conduct patient risk assessments
  • Facilitate linkages to higher-level services
  • Participate in case conferencing
  • Assist with system navigation

• Support to patients:

  • Perform assessments and screenings
  • Provide short-term, solution-focused counseling
  • Offer bridging support while awaiting additional care
  • Contribute to care planning and system navigation
  • Coach patients in self-management of health issues

• Scope of care:

  • Operate as an integral member of the multidisciplinary care team, working alongside family physicians, nurse practitioners, medical office assistants, registered nurses, and social workers
  • Communicate effectively with the clinical team to update client status, coordinate specialized services, or recommend modifications to treatment and care plans
  • Serve as a resource by providing guidance and sharing knowledge about MHSU services
  • Engage in quality improvement initiatives and evaluations to enhance service delivery