What is a Case Manager / Care Coordinator

The case manager or care coordinator on a mental health team is usually the main contact person for a client or carer. They are usually a mental health nurse or allied health professional such as a social worker, psychologist or occupational therapist.

They provide information about mental health problems, provide individual treatment that will help recovery and introduce other services within and outside the health service that may be able to help.

Will the Case Manager contact the family?

It is expected that case managers will contact and discuss care and treatment with families. There may be occasions when this does not occur. Families are encouraged to initiate contact with case managers and be consulted in the treatment plan. This is particularly important on first entering the service, during any treatment change, when the family are worried or when planning discharge.

How do I contact my relative's Case Manager?

Case managers can be contacted by ringing the local Community Mental Health Centre. If a case manager is not available when contacting a Community Mental Health Service, you can ask to speak to the person on Intake.

Does everyone who receives treatment from a Community Health Centre have a Case Manager?

Not everyone receives a case manager / care coordinator – it is dependent upon need and assessment over time.