Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia (IHCWV) is pleased to announce the addition of a new behavioral health therapist, Jennifer Metz, MSW, LGSW, LSW. Jennifer has a master’s degree in social work (MSW). She is a licensed social worker, holding a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) credential in West Virginia and a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) credential in Ohio. 

With extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, she supports individuals facing challenges related to substance use, mental health, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities. Jennifer is a Certified Trauma Professional and a Certified Autism-Informed Professional, bringing specialized knowledge and a compassionate, client-centered approach to her work. Additionally, she is a proud member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC), reflecting her commitment to professional growth and ethical practice.

Jennifer provides behavioral health services to clients aged five and older, available either in-person or via telehealth. When school is in session, she visits local schools to conduct therapy sessions with students during school hours, with parental consent. During summer break, she primarily sees patients at our Harrisville Campus. IHCWV accepts most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. Uninsured or underinsured individuals may apply for the Sliding Fee Discount Program, which offers discounted service rates based on income and household size. If you would like to make an appointment, please call 304-643-4005. To learn more about Jennifer, visit her biography.

Prioritizing Men's Health: A Message from IHCWV for Men's Health Month
June is Men's Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about preventable health problems and encouraging early detection and treatment of diseases among men. At Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia (IHCWV), we believe this month serves as a crucial reminder for men in our communities to take a proactive approach to their well-being.

For too long, societal norms have often discouraged men from openly discussing their health concerns or seeking regular medical attention. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, more advanced conditions, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This Men's Health Month, we want to emphasize two critical pillars of comprehensive men's health that are central to our philosophy at IHCWV: preventive care and behavioral health services.

The Power of Preventive Care: Staying Ahead of the Curve
Many of the most serious health issues affecting men, such as heart disease, certain cancers (prostate, colorectal), and diabetes, are often preventable or highly manageable with early intervention. Regular preventive care appointments are not just for when you feel sick; they are essential for understanding your baseline health, identifying potential risks, and catching problems before they become significant.

At Integrated Health Centers of WV, our preventive care services for men include:

• Annual Physicals: These comprehensive check-ups allow our providers to assess your overall health, monitor vital signs, and discuss any emerging concerns.
• Screenings: Age-appropriate screenings, such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, diabetes screenings, and cancer screenings, are vital for early detection.
• Immunizations: Staying up-to-date on recommended vaccinations protects against preventable diseases.
• Lifestyle Counseling: We work with men to develop healthy habits around nutrition, exercise, and stress management, all of which are crucial for long-term health.

By consistently engaging in preventive care, men can significantly reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases and improve their quality of life for years to come.

Nurturing the Mind: The Importance of Behavioral Health Services
It's impossible to talk about comprehensive health without addressing mental and emotional well-being. Behavioral health, encompassing mental health and substance use disorders, plays a significant role in a man's overall health and can impact physical health in profound ways. Yet, men are often less likely to seek help for these issues due to stigma or a perception that it's a sign of weakness.

At Integrated Health Centers of WV, we understand the unique challenges men face and offer confidential and supportive behavioral health services designed to meet their needs. These services can include:

• Therapy and Counseling: For issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, and relationship problems.
• Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Comprehensive support for individuals struggling with addiction.
• Stress Management Techniques: Learning healthy coping mechanisms for daily stressors.
• Support Groups: Connecting with others facing similar challenges can provide invaluable understanding and encouragement.

Ignoring behavioral health concerns can lead to a decline in physical health, strained relationships, and decreased productivity. This Men's Health Month, we urge men to recognize that seeking help for their mental and emotional well-being is a sign of strength and a vital component of a healthy, fulfilling life.

Our Commitment to Men's Health in West Virginia
At Integrated Health Centers of WV, our mission is to provide accessible, high-quality, integrated healthcare services to all members of our community. This Men's Health Month, we recommit ourselves to empowering men in West Virginia to prioritize their health, both physical and mental.

We encourage all men to schedule their preventive care appointments and to reach out if they are struggling with any behavioral health concerns. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to support you every step of the way. And don't forget, we accept most insurance plans including Medicaid and Medicare, and offer the Sliding Fee Discount Program to qualifying uninsured or underinsured individuals. The Program allows us to offer discounted service rates to patients based on their household size and income level. 

Take charge of your health this Men's Health Month. Your well-being matters.
To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.