What is case management in social work?

Case management in social work is fundamentally a process that involves coordinating a range of services for clients. This encompasses assessing client needs, planning for necessary services, linking clients to appropriate resources, monitoring progress, and evaluating outcomes. The primary goal of case management is to help clients navigate complex systems and ensure that they receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique circumstances. By facilitating access to various services, case management aims to improve client's well-being and overall quality of life.

The other options present concepts that, while relevant to the field of social work, do not accurately define case management. For instance, financial assessments and community organization are essential components of social service delivery, but they do not encapsulate the broader coordination and advocacy roles that case management entails. Similarly, while therapy is an important aspect of mental health support, it is a distinct practice separate from the coordinating functions associated with case management. Understanding case management as a process that brings various services together for the client helps clarify its pivotal role in social work practice.