The human services field entails a multifaceted, array of documentation and procedures. Every step specifically designed to ensure the process of helping is one of order and dependence. No one step can happen without the other. Helpers depend on these procedures to ensure that the client’s needs are being met at every stage of the process. Documentation creates a building block of information and helps regulate the helping process. People seek out help for different reasons. Some are personally initiated and others are court ordered. In any case the process should always start the same. Each case starts with an interview of the client which will be the first initial contact. At this point an assessment will be done, a plan of action will be made and then implementation can take place. When first contact with a client is initiated a set of procedures will the discussed. The helper will conduct an assessment of the client and get some background information. This can also be known as a diagnostic. This is the starting point of information gathering. The helper will then evaluate and focus on the need for service and if services can be established. Eligibility will also be determined at this point in time. When eligibility is established then some basic information is gathered such as name, age, gender, marital status, educational level, and employment information. Other information such as educational reports, medical evaluations, social histories, and references from employee may also be gathered. When all information is gathered and the need is established with the client then both client and helper can start to make a plan of action. This second stage determines future services in a planned manner. Now focus has turned into a detailed oriented phase of proper services needed and the plan is which is best traveled to achieve goals discussed. In this stage more information is usually collected and an in depth awareness of the client needs are discovered. An actual thought out plan is prearranged and specific services will be addressed and what results will be expected. The success of each result will also be evaluated.
After the planning stage is complete then client and helper can move on to the next stage of the session. This third stage is known as the implementation stage. In this stage the service plane is carried out. The helpers’ job is now to supply services, oversee service or access the quality of service. It is then when the helper begins to address each question provided for each service. He or she will monitor implementation, how to evaluate outcomes and how to work with other professionals. Procedures during this stage become extensive with approvals of service needed provided by a supervisor due to funding. A written rationale is required to validate the needed service. The types of service provided will depend on the services provided by the agency. Referrals are often made at this time.
During the whole process several things are mandatory to implement and keep in mind. Case review occurs periodically to ensure everything is going as planned. A supervisor may oversee this part to ensure the helper is on task as well as the client. Written documentation is important to establish a record of work provided. This is to include initial intake, assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation and termination of any case. Documentation of any client case is very important and should never be overlooked. A good record is the safeguard to any case.
Client an helper working together in perfect harmony ensures the result to be efficient and correctly handle. It also guarantees that the correct need is addressed for the best results.