While Case Managers Do Not Normally Sit Around Discussing

While Case Managers Do Not Normally Sit Around Discussing Which Model

For your proposal, you should: Identify the population your agency will serve. Describe the types of services the agency will provide. Identify any potential barriers to care faced by the population served. Compare 2 case management models and propose the model you believe will best serve this population. Justify your selection with research on how this model can assist this population. Provide an example of how a human services worker would provide services using this model.

Paper For Above instruction

Developing an effective human services agency targeting reentry clients—individuals returning to the community after incarceration—requires a careful selection of an appropriate case management model. This paper identifies the population served, the services provided, potential barriers to care, compares two case management models—the Brokerage Model and the Clinical Case Management Model—and advocates for the model best suited to meet the unique needs of this population. It concludes with an example demonstrating practical application of the chosen model by a human services worker.

Population Served and Services Provided

The primary population targeted by this agency comprises formerly incarcerated individuals reentering society. This group often faces complex challenges such as limited employment opportunities, housing instability, mental health issues, substance abuse, and social stigma. Addressing these multifaceted needs requires a comprehensive approach that integrates social services, mental health support, employment assistance, and housing resources. The services provided by the agency include case management, substance abuse treatment referrals, mental health counseling, job placement programs, housing assistance, and life skills training. Additionally, the agency seeks to foster community integration and reduce recidivism through ongoing support mechanisms tailored to the individual needs of each client.

Potential Barriers to Care

Clients reentering the community often confront significant obstacles. These include structural barriers such as limited access to stable housing, employment restrictions due to criminal records, and inadequate healthcare coverage. Social barriers such as stigma, distrust of authority figures, and familial disconnection may also impede engagement with services. Furthermore, mental health disorders and substance use are prevalent in this population, complicating their ability to navigate and utilize available resources effectively. Recognizing these barriers is crucial for designing responsive interventions that facilitate access and retention in care.

Comparison of Two Case Management Models

The two models considered are the Brokerage Model and the Clinical Case Management Model. The Brokerage Model emphasizes connecting clients with existing resources and services in a collaborative manner. It operates on a referral-based system where case managers serve as liaisons, enabling clients to access community resources, with minimal ongoing clinical intervention. This model is cost-effective and flexible, making it suitable for clients with relatively stable needs who require assistance navigating available services.

The Clinical Case Management Model involves an ongoing therapeutic relationship between the client and a trained case manager—often a social worker—who employs clinical techniques to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues. This model is intensive, providing comprehensive, holistic support including counseling, psychotherapy, and stabilization services. It benefits clients with complex mental health and behavioral challenges but requires more resources and specialized staff.

Proposed Model and Justification

For the population of reentry clients, the Clinical Case Management Model emerges as the most appropriate choice. Research indicates that individuals returning from incarceration frequently struggle with mental health disorders, substance abuse, and history of trauma, which necessitate comprehensive, therapeutic intervention (Lattimore et al., 2014). The holistic approach of clinical case management allows workers to address underlying mental health issues, build trust, and provide tailored interventions that promote stability and reintegration.

While the Brokerage Model is useful for clients with fewer needs, the complex challenges faced by reentry populations demand a more intensive model that not only links clients to resources but also actively engages them in treatment and support strategies. The clinical approach facilitates ongoing assessment, emotional support, and skill development, which are critical for reducing recidivism and promoting long-term success (Miller & Ford, 2018).

Service Provision Example

Consider a human services worker named Sarah working with a reentry client named James. Using the clinical case management model, Sarah begins by conducting a comprehensive assessment of James’s mental health, substance use history, and social circumstances. She collaborates with mental health professionals to coordinate therapy sessions and medication management. Sarah also develops a personalized plan that addresses James’s employment aspirations, housing needs, and social support systems. She regularly checks in, providing emotional support, coping strategies, and motivation, while adjusting the care plan based on James’s progress. Through this integrated approach, Sarah helps James stabilize his mental health, secure stable housing, and find employment, significantly improving his chances of successful community reintegration.

Conclusion

In choosing a case management model for a human services agency serving reentry clients, the clinical case management approach offers a comprehensive solution to meet their complex needs. Its emphasis on ongoing, therapeutic support, combined with resource linkage, fosters long-term stability and reduces the likelihood of recidivism. By tailoring services to address mental health, substance abuse, housing, and employment challenges, this model provides a holistic platform for successful reintegration into society.

References

• Lattimore, P. K., Visher, C. A., & Ruggero, E. (2014). The transition from prison to community: A review of research. Crime & Delinquency, 60(4), 497–522.
• Miller, J. M., & Ford, M. (2018). Reentry services and their impact on recidivism: A systematic review. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 57(5), 310–329.
• Belenko, S., Dembo, R., & Chen, Y. (2008). The role of case management in substance abuse treatment for offenders: A review. Substance Use & Misuse, 43(12-13), 1884–1900.
• Taxman, F. S., & Belenko, S. (2014). Implementing evidence-based practices in community corrections and treatment: A practical guide. Springer.
• Shannon, J., & Morrow, A. (2017). Addressing mental health needs of reentry populations: Case management approaches. Psychiatric Services, 68(8), 764–766.
• Williams, D. A., & Cheadle, T. (2020). Community reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals: The importance of holistic case management. Social Work, 65(3), 245–254.
• Marock, S., Tosh, J., & Rohleder, P. (2017). Mental health interventions in criminal justice: Models and effectiveness. Journal of Mental Health, 26(2), 115–122.
• Fisher, W. H., & Raeder, M. (2014). Continuity of care in reentry programs. Criminal Justice and Behavior, 41(3), 338–356.
• James, D. J., & Glaze, L. E. (2006). Mental health problems of prison and jail inmates. U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs.
• Trabisch, A., & McKenna, H. P. (2015). Case management in community health: A holistic approach. Community Mental Health Journal, 51(2), 188–195.