CASE MANAGEMENT

The Case Management program uses a team approach to provide the support services needed to assist consumers in gaining access to medical, social, financial, educational and other services essential to meeting basic living needs. These services consist of 5 core functions: community- based comprehensive assessment, individualized service planning, linking and coordinating to community resources, ensuring service accountability and continued support and advocacy. Case Management seeks to maintain or restore each consumer’s capacity for living independently and achieving a satisfying quality of life.

Admission Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• DMHAS definition of severe and chronic mental illness
• Voluntary
• Resident of Catchment Area 11

A Story: Jennifer

Jennifer came to Case Management at the suggestion of her therapist. She was having difficulty maintaining her apartment and was struggling to communicate with family members, who were her primary support in the community. With the help of her case manager she was able to obtain Section 8 housing. The move to the new apartment brightened her mood and gave her something to look forward to. Her case manager also assisted her with finding medical services for several health issues. Improved physical health helped her to feel more hopeful about her future.

Jennifer wanted to learn more about her own mental illness and to assist others with understanding their mental illness and obtaining the services they needed. She completed the Advocacy Unlimited training and found it positive and rewarding. As she said, “I learned that I was a real person and not just someone with mental illness.” I was able to help myself and others, and became a strong voice with my family members.” She began performing with the Second Step Players, which also made her feel good about herself. And she became employed part-time as a van aide.

About this time, Jennifer began to talk with her case manager about pursuing custody of her sister’s children. Through a long legal process, she gained custody, moved into a bigger apartment and became a full-time mother to her 3 nieces. About 3 months later Jennifer was promoted to a Teacher’s Aide. As she said, “Work gave me a reason to get up every day and made me feel like I was giving back.”

Jennifer is just one of the many people Sound Community Services case managers have guided in recovery. As she said “I never gave up on myself and continued to have the strength to push myself through each hurdle. I truly feel I have changed my life around, and I have Sound Community Services to thank for that.” Jennifer is in recovery.