What is a Mental Health Case Manager?

When a loved one is struggling with a mental health condition, it can be confusing to navigate the treatment process on your own. There are many challenges and questions that may arise when trying to find the right health care professionals or treatment options. That is where an experienced case manager can step in and become a very beneficial member of your loved one’s care team. A case manager can simplify the treatment process by serving as a liaison between clients and their health care professionals. They also offer the necessary support, guidance, and accountability to keep individuals and their families on the path to healing. 

What is the role of a case manager?

Whether an individual suspects their loved one has a mental health condition, or if there is a previous history of mental illness, a case manager can offer valuable support and guidance. The case manager will begin with an assessment, or a comprehensive overview of the client’s symptoms, medical history, family history, previous providers/treatment, and any medications. This will also include questions regarding their school and work experience, whether there is a history of trauma, and what the individual excels and/or struggles with academically and professionally. 

After an assessment, case managers utilize all of the information they learned about their client to determine the level of care that is needed (inpatient or outpatient) and offer treatment recommendations that are tailored to the client’s needs. Although each case is unique, case managers have significant experience with recognizing various types of symptoms and conditions and can consider what has been successful for the specific symptoms/conditions previously. 

At Feinberg Consulting, our case managers work closely with our multi-disciplinary team. This includes clinical managers, recovery coaches, interventionists, and acting as a liaison with all medical professionals involved in treatment. Our case managers offer extensive support not only to the client but also to their family. They look at the “big picture” and consider all aspects of how they can help families achieve hope and healing. 

When a formal intervention is needed, the case manager supports the intervention process by supporting the family in writing their intervention letters and making sure that they have the necessary tools (even if it’s something as simple as sending over templates to help with constructing the letters). They help find solutions to any concerns that the family may have as well. 

Why is having a case manager beneficial?

Often, when individuals go to their primary care doctor (or pediatrician for children), they are told to contact a specialist on their own. This process can be extremely challenging and require extensive research to find the best treatment options.

In comparison, a case manager can help to greatly simplify this complex process. They can help research the proper providers or treatment centers, help families make initial contact, and if need be, offer support at appointments. Once in treatment, a case manager will also update the family on the growth and success of their loved one, so that they can stay up-to-date on the treatment outcome. 

How do case managers offer support?

Case managers offer support to families with how to approach their loved ones so that they do not feel attacked or shamed. They help with communication and setting boundaries, offering guidance and support for family members so they can show their loved ones they are coming from a place of respect, dignity, and understanding. If their loved one does not want help, then case managers can help families be a part of the solution, as opposed to enabling detrimental behaviors.

Additionally, case managers can help families manage treatment arrangements, from residential treatment facilities to outpatient appointments with medical professionals. They coordinate all aspects of the care plan and make sure that all of the pieces fall into place. Even though there are specialists and health professionals that may come and go throughout a loved one’s treatment, the case manager is there to make sure that everyone is staying on course, and that the family stays informed.

Are you or a loved one in need of a case manager?

At Feinberg Consulting, our case managers are available outside of the standard 9 am to 5 pm hours. If an emergency comes up, family members can contact their case manager, and they will help coach them on how to de-escalate and navigate the situation. They will help find solutions to situations that can often feel frightening and overwhelming.

If you or a loved one is suffering from a significant mental health condition, our highly trained professionals are here to help coordinate the necessary care. Let us offer guidance and help to navigate the path to hope and healing. Contact us today to learn more at 877.538.5425.