Understanding Clinical Case Management

SMHW Holiday Schedule

Student Mental Health and Wellbeing will be open for scheduled telehealth appointments on regular business days from December 22 through January 2. To schedule an appointment, students can schedule through the health record portal. Regular operations will resume on January 5. Please note that the University will be closed on December 24, 25, 31, and January 1.

What is Clinical Case Management?

Clinical Case Management is a vital service for students at UCSF who need more than individual therapy, clinical group, or medication management. It connects students with a wide range of resources provided by UCSF Student Mental Health & Wellbeing Services (SMHW) within their communities. Information you share with the Case Manager is confidential.

Overview of a Case Management Session

Duration and Fees: A brief, 20-minute session with a SMHW licensed clinician, completely free of charge.

Purpose: To connect students with tailored services and resources that address their unique needs.

Types of Resources Available

  • General Information: Basic guidance and support on various clinical topics. For non-clinical Case Management support such as basic needs, housing, advocacy, etc., a referral to Student Life Services or Students Rights and Responsibilities may be more appropriate.  
  • Provider Referrals: Connections to in-house or community mental health providers.
  • Higher Level of Care (HLOC): Referrals for more intensive treatment options when appropriate.
  • Specialty Care: Access to specific types of healthcare services or referral to primary care.
  • Recovery Programs: Resources for substance use and other recovery services.
  • Recommendations for consultation with various campus partners such as Student Disability Services (SDS), Learning Resource Center (LRS), Offices of Career and Professional Development (OCPD), Registered Campus Organizations (RCOs), etc.
  • And More: Various other personalized resources based on individual needs.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Collaboration: Work with the Case Manager to assess and prioritize your current needs.

Personalized Care: Receive recommendations and referrals tailored to your specific situation.

Assistance with Appointments: Optionally, the Case Manager can help you schedule appointments with community providers during the session.

Preparing for Your Case Management Appointment

List Your Concerns/Goals: Write down and prioritize the top three issues you need help with, whether they are academic, interpersonal, or related to substance use.

Geographic Considerations: If you’re planning to leave the San Francisco Bay Area, consider where you’ll need services or resources.

Punctuality: Arrive on time; even a small delay can reduce the effectiveness of your session.

After Your Case Management Appointment

Next Steps: Attend your scheduled appointment with the new provider, similar to attending a regular doctor's visit.

Feedback: Share your experiences with the Case Manager to help improve the services for future students. You can do this by sending a secure message to your SMHW provider or contacting the Counseling Center front desk at 415-476-1281.

 

By taking advantage of Case Management services, you can ensure that you’re connected to the right resources to support your well-being and academic success at UCSF.