Social Work in Southfield
Social work helps people and families handle the practical and emotional challenges that come with a brain injury, from planning and resources to family adjustment.
What is Social Work in Rehabilitation?
A brain injury can affect every part of life: work, finances, housing, relationships and plans for the future. Social workers help people and families make sense of these changes, find resources and plan the steps ahead.
Social workers have been part of Irvine's team since 1992, alongside nurses, case managers, recreational therapists, counselors and residential care assistants. They work closely with case management and counseling, and the specific support depends on each person's situation.
In rehabilitation, social work typically includes family support, help with practical needs, connection to community resources and planning for transitions, such as a move home or to a different level of care.
Social work may help when
- A family is adjusting to life after a loved one's injury
- Practical needs such as housing, benefits or paperwork feel overwhelming
- Community resources or support groups would help
- Plans are needed for a move home or to a new setting
- Caregivers are feeling stressed or stretched
What to Expect
- Support for people and families adjusting to brain injury
- Help identifying community resources
- Planning for transitions between levels of care
- Coordination with case management and counseling
- Attention to the whole person and their circumstances
Our Approach to Social Work
Initial Assessment
The social worker learns about the person's family, home, finances, supports and concerns, along with their goals.
Personalized Plan
Together they identify priorities, such as family support, resources or planning for the future, and the steps to address them.
Ongoing Support
The social worker follows up, adjusts the plan and coordinates with the rest of the team as needs change.
Benefits
Family Support
Families get help understanding and adjusting to changes.
Practical Help
Support with resources and planning can ease day-to-day pressures.
Smoother Transitions
Planning ahead can make moves between settings easier.
Whole-Person Care
Social and family needs are part of the rehabilitation plan.
How It Typically Unfolds
First Meeting
A conversation about the person's situation, supports and concerns.
Planning
Priorities are set and resources identified.
Ongoing Support
Follow-up as needs change during rehabilitation.
Transitions
Help planning the next step, whether a move home or a different level of care.
Ways social work may help families
Social work support may include education about brain injury, help finding support groups and community programs, guidance on planning for the future, caregiver support, and help preparing for discharge or a change in living situation.
Irvine's affiliations include the Brain Injury Association of Michigan, which offers information and resources for people with brain injuries and their families across the state.
Common Questions About Social Work
What is the difference between social work and case management?
They overlap and work closely together. At Irvine, case management oversees treatment and coordinates with providers and insurers, while social work typically focuses on family, social and practical needs.
Can social work help family caregivers?
Yes. Supporting families and caregivers is a common part of social work in rehabilitation.
Does social work help with planning a return home?
Planning for transitions is a typical part of the role, working with the rest of the team.
Is social work the same as counseling?
Counseling focuses on emotional adjustment and coping. Social work also addresses practical and family needs. Both may be part of the plan.
How do I get started?
Call (248) 415-2500. There is no charge for a consultation.
Need Help Planning the Road Ahead?
Call (248) 415-2500 to talk with our Southfield team.
Book an Appointment