Which factors predict case management services and how do these services relate to client outcomes?

The current study explores two issues: which factors predict case management services and which case management services predict outcomes. Thirty individuals with schizophrenia participated in the study. Information regarding clients' characteristics and the working alliance was collected within the first 2 months of participation in the program and again 1 year later. Case managers completed a daily contact log for each client over the course of the year. Results suggest that the working alliance is a strong predictor of case management services. The working alliance and the frequency with which housing and medication were discussed were strong predictors of community functioning outcomes. Directions for future research are provided that are based upon these preliminary findings.