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In a mental health environment, social workers exist to help patients and families. Mental health social workers can connect people with the right resources, counsel patients in crisis, and carry out psychological assessments. Today, they are one of the largest providers of mental health and psychiatric services in the country.
Role of a Social Worker in a Mental Health Facility
Mental health social workers play a pivotal role in a mental health facility. Their job is to support patients and their families. They may help patients navigate the healthcare system or assess the patient’s mental health.
Sometimes, the social worker will offer short-term therapy or counseling. They will often counsel people who are experiencing distress or some kind of crisis.
You may first encounter social workers during the intake process. They will typically write down your medical insurance information, medical history, previous psychiatric treatments, current problems, and other identifying information. Then, they can create a customized treatment plan for your unique concerns.
Often, social workers in mental health facilities are set up to address crisis intervention. They may help walk-in patients or offer telephone crisis coverage. Additionally, the social worker may give patients community referrals for food, housing, and similar needs.
Benefits of Working with Social Workers
When interacting with social work and mental health facilities, you can enjoy a better experience because social workers are there to help. They can help simplify the intake process and support you throughout your treatment. If you are struggling to find housing or aftercare programs, a social worker may be able to help.
Better Intake Assessments
During intake, mental health social workers may conduct a full psychological and medical assessment. In addition to taking down a social history, they will assess your substance use habits, emotional functioning, support system, financial stability, physical abilities, and safety. They may also consider whether you currently suffer from suicidal ideation or similar issues.
More Therapeutic Programs
Another benefit of social workers is therapeutic. Social workers often manage individual, group, and family therapy programs. They will also create and implement your treatment plan, so you can get individualized attention and personalized therapies.
Improved Access to Resources
Mental health social workers are responsible for figuring out the kind of resources you may need during and after your treatment process. Then, they will help you connect to these community resources, so you can enjoy a safe, healthy recovery. They may also collaborate with other mental health professionals to determine the best treatment options and discharge plans for your needs.
Better Family Involvement
A part of the social worker’s job is to help the family with mental health issues as well. They may help the family members find resources in the community, or they may recommend family therapy sessions. In addition, the social worker may help family members understand the treatment process and their role in everything.
Easier Treatment Processes
Because a social worker can help you navigate insurers, therapies, and intake procedures, they can simplify the entire treatment process. Once you are finished with treatment, they can also help you easily find aftercare programs.
Discover How Mental Health
Mental health social workers are there to help you and your loved ones navigate your treatment process. From the moment someone reaches out in a crisis, a social worker will help evaluate their needs and connect them to the right sources of care.
If you or your loved ones are struggling with a mental health disorder, you are not alone. You can reach out to Las Encinas Hospital to learn more about our treatment programs and how we can help.