Case Management

Connecting children, and their families, to care, resources, & advocacy.
Two people hugging.

Feeling overwhelmed by your child’s mental health needs?

If your child is struggling at home, in school, or in the community, you’re not alone.

A Children’s Mental Health Case Manager can walk alongside caregivers, helping you understand available resources, prioritize services, and advocate for your child’s needs. Together, you’ll create a personalized plan that may include therapy, school supports, social groups, parenting resources, medical care, and more.

Our goal is to help your child thrive—and to make sure you feel supported every step of the way.

A Case Manager can help you:

  • Find the right services for your child’s needs, including therapy, skills groups, and other mental health supports
  • Navigate health insurance, including applying for programs like TEFRA
  • Collaborate with your child’s school to advocate for accommodations and educational supports
  • Coordinate care across your child’s providers so everyone is working together to support your child’s growth
  • Connect with community resources, like recreation programs, peer support, and parenting groups
  • Explore additional funding options that may help cover the cost of care
For ages

3-18 years (up to 21 years if still in high school)

Time commitment

Minimum of 1 hour face-to-face a month; varies by need
 

Locations

Community-based

Hours

Monday-Friday with some evening availability 

Eligibility - 

  • Live in Hennepin County
  • Children and younger adults under age 18 years (up to 21 years if still in high school)
  • Have a mental health diagnosis and meet state eligibility requirements
  • Need support identifying and accessing mental health services and resources

Eligibility can sometimes be complex. If you’re unsure whether your child qualifies, our Central Intake team is here to help. They can connect you with a program director who will walk you through the next steps and answer any questions.

What Families Say

Frequently Asked Questions

Children’s Mental Health Case Management (CMHCM) is a voluntary, non-clinical service that offers hands-on support and advocacy for families navigating mental health systems. It’s designed for families in Hennepin County who have a child with a qualifying mental health diagnosis and who need help identifying, accessing, or coordinating services.

Case Managers meet with the child and family at least once a month—and more often if needed—to support the child’s unique needs. Visits can take place in your home, at your child’s school or therapy location, or anywhere that feels safe and comfortable for conversation.  

Case Management is typically covered by Medical Assistance (including PMAPs). For families with commercial insurance, Hennepin County may provide funding to ensure access to services.

No. Case Managers are not therapists and do not provide clinical or crisis services. Instead, they walk alongside families to help identify helpful services and supports, make referrals, and ensure those services are a good fit. While they can’t bypass waitlists or eligibility requirements, they are strong advocates for your child’s needs.

Yes—Case Managers can help families explore potential financial supports for a wide range of needs. While they can’t guarantee eligibility or approval, they’ll guide you through the process and help you understand your options.

They can help you explore housing resources and identify places to look for affordable options. However, families are responsible for deciding what fits their needs and completing applications. Case Managers can offer guidance, but they can’t guarantee housing availability.

Case Managers do not provide transportation themselves. However, they can help you learn about transportation options that may be available through your insurance or community resources.