The case manager is an advocate who manages patients with complex issues and draws up customized treatment options. Case management is a form of social work, but the position does not involve social work training. Instead, it consists of working with multiple disciplines to help patients get the services they need to remain involved with their healthy, sober lifestyle. 

Types of Treatment Case Management Include:

• Strength-based perspective

• Clinical

• Generalist

• Assertive community perspective 

Types of Case Management Services:  

• Developing case plans

• Evaluating progress

• Determining eligibility for benefits

• Screening and assessment

• Outsourcing

The case management role will require advocating for all resources to assist, which include help with prescription medications, doctor’s appointments, job retraining, housing, and more. Case managers will work with multiple patients at once. 

Case managers will have core competencies which include:

• Understanding addiction and substance abuse, particularly as they relate to finding treatments and other resources.

• Describing philosophies and scientific approaches to the patient to help them focus on treatment.

• Recognizing the importance of family, community, and social networks during the treatment and recovery plan.

• Maintaining a working knowledge of treatment options, which include government, insurance, and others.

• Understanding diverse cultures and incorporating cultural differences as a form of supporting treatment instead of working against it.

• Appreciating the promotion of the interdisciplinary approach to mental health treatment.