Mental Health Team Members

Mental Health Nurse
The mental health nurse acts as case manager and coordinates the care given by the Mental Health Team. A mental health nurse is a registered nurse who has received additional education/experience in the treatment of mental illnesses. All VNA mental health nurses have specialized training and clinical experience in mental health nursing practice.

Medical Social Worker
The medical social worker serves as a complement to the mental health nurse to reinforce problem-solving and coping strategies. The medical social worker steps in to allow patients to address social factors in their lives, and can provide counseling for long-range planning and decision-making. Assistance with supportive services and resources that will appropriately strengthen and supplement the total care plan are also offered.

Certified Home Care Aide
Home care aides (HCA) on the team have received education and gained specialized skills that can help them accomplish routine tasks with mental health patients. The care for these patients is often extremely difficult and requires HCAs who have had additional training and education. Trained HCAs have understanding of the patient's illness, allowing them to enhance the patient's well-being while providing personal care. The HCA can also assist with exercises as instructed by the case manager.