How can you use strength-based case management to improve your case management?

1 What is SBCM?

SBCM is based on the principles of positive psychology, which emphasize the potential and resilience of human beings. SBCM recognizes that clients have unique abilities, talents, interests, and aspirations that can help them overcome challenges and cope with adversity. SBCM also acknowledges that clients have access to various sources of support, such as family, friends, community, and spirituality, that can enhance their well-being and functioning. SBCM works with clients to identify, mobilize, and leverage these strengths and resources in the service of their goals.

2 How does SBCM work?

SBCM is a four-part process that involves assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation. In each component, the case manager and the client work together to apply a strength-based perspective and approach. The assessment includes a strength-based inventory that looks into the client's personal, interpersonal, and environmental assets and resources. The case manager uses motivational interviewing techniques to understand the client's motivation and readiness for change. Then, they develop a service plan tailored to the client's goals and strengths. This plan outlines desired outcomes, strategies and actions, roles and responsibilities, and criteria to measure progress. The case manager then implements the plan with support, guidance, advocacy, coordination, and referral as needed. Strength-based interventions such as solution-focused therapy are used to help the client build on their strengths and achieve their goals. The case manager also facilitates the client's connection with other services in the community. Finally, they review and evaluate the service plan regularly with feedback and data to monitor progress, satisfaction, and quality of life. The results are documented and reported.

3 What are the benefits of SBCM?

SBCM has numerous advantages for both case managers and clients. For case managers, SBCM can help enhance rapport and trust with clients, foster a collaborative and respectful relationship, increase job satisfaction and motivation, reduce stress and burnout, and improve effectiveness and efficiency. Clients can benefit from SBCM by increasing self-esteem and confidence, enhancing motivation and engagement, developing skills and competencies, expanding their social network and support system, and improving well-being and functioning.

4 What are the challenges of SBCM?

SBCM presents a number of challenges for case managers, such as adopting a positive and optimistic attitude, challenging their own assumptions and biases, and respecting the client's autonomy and choices. Case managers must also strive to balance the client's strengths and needs, while adapting to the client's pace and readiness. On the other hand, clients must be willing and able to participate and collaborate, identify and articulate their strengths and goals, take responsibility for their own change, accept and cope with setbacks and difficulties, as well as seek help when needed.

5 How can you learn and practice SBCM?

SBCM is a skill that can be learned and practiced to improve your case management outcomes. To do so, one should read and research about SBCM and its principles, methods, and tools. You can also seek training and supervision from experts and mentors in SBCM, observe experienced case managers who use SBCM, reflect on your own practice and outcomes, and ask for feedback from your peers and colleagues. Through SBCM, you can leverage the strengths and resources of your clients and yourself to empower them to take charge of their own lives. Ultimately, SBCM is a powerful and effective model of case management that can help you and your clients achieve positive and meaningful outcomes.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?