Supporting Overlooked Mental Health and Housing Needs

2 minutes

Training & PD

A supported intervention for a client with complex mental health needs and housing insecurity — resulting in formal assessment, stabilised housing, and successful transition into part-time employment.

Woman standing between large rock formations

Background

The client presented with long-term mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and suspected OCD and ADHD/ASD. Despite being highly compliant and engaged with services, they had made little progress and were frequently overlooked due to being assessed as "low priority."

The client had a history of long-term unemployment, minimal work experience, insecure housing, and limited financial stability. Family supports were limited, with complex interpersonal dynamics. Previous diagnoses had been suggested but not followed up or actively managed.

Our Approach

Foundational sessions and an assessment matrix were completed to accurately assess the client's self-awareness, motivation, and functional capacity. Medical summaries were requested from current and previous providers to support a comprehensive understanding of the client's baseline presentation.

A secondary consultation was completed by an accredited mental health social worker, who was able to provide an assessment for OCD. A tailored treatment plan was developed to ensure therapeutic approaches aligned with, rather than exacerbated, the client's mental health challenges.

Housing insecurity was addressed through case management support. This included assistance with a PREP application, negotiating a payment plan with the landlord, and liaising with tenant advocacy services.

Counselling sessions focused on improving self-esteem, interpersonal skills, and boundary setting. As stability improved, the client was supported to explore employment options.