Effectiveness Of Intensive Case Management For Homeless Adolescents: Results Of A 3-Month Follow-Up

This article describes the Seattle Homeless Adolescent Research Project (SHARP), a research demonstration program with a goal of implementing and evaluating an intensive mental health case management program for homeless adolescents. This new program, Project Passage, is based on nine primary components: (a) assessment, (b) planning, (c) linkage, (d) monitoring or tracking, (e) advocacy, (f) counseling or the therapeutic relationship, (g) treatment teams, (h) crisis service, and (i) flexible funds. Case load was limited to no more than 12 cases, so that adolescent-centered, individualized services could be delivered. Youths were randomly assigned to Project Passage or a “regular” case management program. A 3-month follow-up found that both groups demonstrated significant improvements in mental health outcomes and social adjustment; however, youths in Project Passage evidenced lower levels of aggression and greater satisfaction with their quality of life.