It is important for the case manager to give each family member an opportunity to give his or her perspective on the client's problem if this has not been achieved during the screening process. All family members are encouraged to attend this appointment as each member will have a different relationship with the client and a different understanding of the problem. These differences become important in the various stages of illness and its treatment. This allows the family to express their version of the patient's circumstances and to identify their goals for the patient and themselves. Some families present with definite illness related questions while others hold other explanations for symptoms and behaviours.
Some families deny or minimize the client's difficulties.
It is to be expected that families may resist or reject the help offered, and this is viewed as a normal coping style when dealing with serious illness. Case managers can ease the burden by attending to whatever family stresses are present, in hopes of alleviating the situation through reassurance and support or by making a referral to an appropriate community service if the stress is unrelated to the primary problem of psychosis. In general, family strengths need to be identified and capitalized upon, especially during the early stage of engagement. It is important for families to assume a role as partners in care. The client, family and interdisciplinary team working in collaboration with one another helps the client attain the highest level of functioning possible.