How to become a certified case manager in Los Angeles

Becoming a certified case manager in Los Angeles can be a rewarding career path for those who are passionate about helping others. Case managers work with individuals and families to assess their needs, develop care plans, and connect them with resources and services to improve their quality of life. If you're interested in pursuing this career, here's what you need to know.

First, it's important to understand the formal requirements for becoming a certified case manager. In California, the Board of Behavioral Sciences oversees the licensing and certification of case managers. To become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), which is a common path for case managers, you'll need to have a master's degree in social work from an accredited program, complete at least 3,200 hours of supervised clinical experience, and pass a licensing exam. Other paths to certification may have different requirements, so it's important to research the specific certification you're interested in.

Once you've met the formal requirements, you can apply for certification through a professional organization such as the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC). This certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the field, and may be required by some employers. To maintain your certification, you'll need to complete continuing education and meet other requirements set by the certifying organization.