Hello, my name is Maria Ortiz and I have worked at CHCW since September of 2013. I was one of the first people to utilize a pilot project that trained reception staff to be medical assistants, and in May of 2015 became an MA-C. I spent 7 years in this role and particularly enjoyed the opportunity to train and support residents as well as provide intensive support for APCs, several of whom I was paired with exclusively during their careers at CHCW. In 2022 I moved into the position of Behavioral Health Consultant Coordinator and have worked with the Behavioral Health Director and Director of Psychology Education to refine and expand the role. Within this position I offer support in training of MAs about the role of BHCS and how to partner with BHCs, in coordinating BHC schedules across 6 sites, in onboarding new providers, in JEDI initiatives, in BHC wellness initiatives and morale building across the team, and in other initiatives and projects as they arise. Not only do I try to bring my dedication to the Behavioral Health team, but also my deep knowledge of the communities which I am part of- the larger Yakima community, the local Mexican American community, and the larger community and culture of our medical and training programs at CHCW.