What gaps might exist in your state’s mental health policies, and what is your ethical responsibility in addressing these gaps?

MenuWeek 6:

Mental Health and Managed Care

Psychology professionals historically provided mental health services, but, over time, social work professionals have emerged as the largest service providers in this area. The social work profession brings a unique perspective to mental health and managed care. Its focus on environmental factors and their importance in both the assessment and intervention phases is one example of how the social work profession has influenced mental health care. Despite these influences, gaps in care still exist within the mental health care system. How might you, as a social worker, respond to the challenges these gaps in care present? What gaps might exist in your state’s mental health policies, and what is your ethical responsibility in addressing these gaps?This week, you explore the gaps in care within the mental health care system and develop suggestions for how to address the challenges the system faces in providing care. You also examine the specific mental health policies for your state and analyze the ethical responsibilities of social workers in mental health care.