How did you become a mental health case manager?
First, I got my bachelor’s degree in social work from Baylor University in 2009. Most social work jobs these days require a master’s degree, but I was able to get a job working for a local county agency with just my bachelor’s degree. It helped that I had a lot of internship experience under my belt, so I had a good resume and experience to back it up. I am currently working full-time as a mental health case manager while also going to school part-time to get my master’s degree in social work (MSW).
What are some of the things you do on a daily basis?
It’s always something new! One of the best parts about my job is that I’m always working with someone or something different. Right now I am working with individuals with intellectual disabilities. My caseload includes both children and adults, some with serious disorders and some that are higher-functioning. So the type of work I’m doing always changes.
On a daily basis I typically meet with my consumers at their homes to check in with them and their families to make sure they are doing well and have everything they need. I spend a lot of my time coordinating supports and resources for my consumers. For example, if someone needs the help of an Occupational Therapist, or needs help finding gainful employment, or is having trouble managing the paperwork for health benefits, I will do everything I can to assist that person.
Some days are spent mostly in my office at my desk, where I’ll be filling out paperwork, making calls, and documenting how I’ve spent my time for billing purposes. I work closely with other professionals like doctors, teachers, and therapists to make sure we’re all on the same page as far as treatment and care goes for the consumers on my caseload.
Occasionally I may need to respond to a crisis situation, where one of my consumers is having an emergency. These can be very long and stressful days.
What’s your favorite part about being a mental health case manager?
The best part is the fulfillment I get from helping people and seeing my effort make an actual difference in their lives. Also, I enjoy the inspiration I get from seeing these people working hard to overcome the challenges they’ve had to deal with in life. Great co-workers and supervisors who are supportive and always willing to help is another big plus.
What’s the worst part?
Not every consumer is easy to work with – some of them can really test your patience. It’s hard not to take things personally when you’re getting yelled at by the individuals and families you are working so hard to help. Other times a consumer may not take your advice or may ignore any resources you’ve worked hard to get for them. This can be especially frustrating.
Are you happy with your salary and benefits?
Not really, but because I only have my bachelor’s degree I’m not really surprised. Once I get my master’s degree (MSW) I expect to be making a lot more. There is basically no room for advancement in my position at all. You either stay a case manager forever or get lucky and get promoted to supervisor. Other than that, no pay raises or perks at all. It’s not very ideal, but I am happy to have a job and happy to be gaining experience.
What personal qualities does it take to be an effective mental health case manager?
Patience, empathy, and an ability to draw the line between your work life and home life. When I first started this job I stressed myself out by taking my work home with me. I quickly learned you simply can’t do this if you expect to last in this field.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to be a mental health case manager?
Just know what you’re getting yourself into! Try to shadow a case manager if you can, so you can see what the work is really like. Plus, I’d recommend getting your MSW degree so you aren’t stuck with low pay and no room for promotion your whole life. I would also recommend trying to stay away from government agencies if you can. In my experience, they can be really mismanaged, and people burn out very quickly.
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