NASW-CA EmpowerEd Program

Course Description

This course explores strengths model case management (SMCM) and addresses indications, contraindications, assessment, and clinical interventions, as well as case documentation that reflects the use of SMCM. Also explored are the SMCM core principles and structure and practice components, along with an explanation of the Fidelity Scale developed by the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare. The course also clarifies the difference between “strengths model case management” (SMCM) and “strengths-based case management” as well as other case management models. To complete the course, participants read online content that incorporates case vignettes and view short, web-based video clips. The online posttest must be passed with a score of 80% or better to print a certificate of completion.

Target Audience

This introductory course provides psychotherapists at all levels of experience with a deeper understanding of the strategies and techniques of the strengths model case management (SMCM) method and how to demonstrate its use in clinical documentation.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, readers will be able to do the following:

• Distinguish strengths model case management (SMCM) from simply helping a client access resources (i.e., brokerage and/or linkage services) while attending to a client’s strengths.
• Identify core intervention principles of SMCM.
• Identify the eleven elements of an SMCM Fidelity Scale.
• Understand why SMCM is designed for use in agency-based service programs, not solo practices.