Before receiving Tailored Care Management (TCM) services from Monarch, Robin Alcala struggled with severe mental health challenges. Now, she finds it difficult to remember what life was like before Monarch, as the comprehensive care she’s received has transformed her life. Today, Robin enjoys better physical and mental health, holds a fulfilling job and has access to the health care services she needs.
How Monarch Helped Robin Rebuild Her Life
“I was pretty sick, and I don’t really remember coming to Monarch at first,” Robin shares, reflecting on her early days receiving services through Monarch’s Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT). Assertive Community Treatment is a community-based group of professionals who provide medical, behavioral health and rehabilitation support to individuals with severe and persistent mental illnesses.
With ACTT services, Robin began her journey toward recovery and growth. By 2018, she expressed interest in working and was hired as a direct support professional (DSP) at Monarch’s Stanly Industrial Services (SIS) day program in Albemarle, where she assisted adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The Impact of Care Management Services
Robin continued to receive support from Monarch’s Care Management services, which are offered through the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) in Stanly County. These services integrate both mental health and primary health care to ensure a holistic approach to recovery.
Robin’s team included various experts who worked together to help her overcome significant challenges. This team included:
- Dr. Robert McHale, M.D., Medical Director for Long-term Services and Supports,
- Ana Liza Cisneros-Howard, LCSW, RPT, Behavioral Health Therapist,
- Debbie Miller, RN, Director of Care Management, Behavioral Health,
- Marcus Berry, previous Addiction Peer Coordinator, and
- Nicole Richardson, Care Manager.
With their guidance, Robin drastically reduced her hospital stays, started living independently, and enjoys life with her husband of 24 years. She also felt a sense of purpose through her DSP role at SIS, where she helped individuals with disabilities.
Overcoming PTSD and Finding Peace
Robin continues to manage her post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and she credits her treatment team, especially Ana and Dr. McHale, for supporting her through the healing process. “I’m still dealing with that pain, but they’ve helped me a lot,” Robin says.
Her journey has also included learning to incorporate patience into her life — something she continues to work on every day.
The Future of TCM in North Carolina
North Carolina launched TCM services for Medicaid enrollees, providing a multidisciplinary care team that works with individuals to develop a personalized care plan. Monarch, certified as a Care Management Agency (CMA), offers integrated and collaborative care to Medicaid beneficiaries with serious mental health concerns, including serious mental illness, emotional disturbances, severe substance use disorders, traumatic brain injuries and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Giving Back: Robin’s Experience as a DSP
As Robin thrived with the support she received, she found it fulfilling to provide care in her role as a DSP. She assisted Sara, an individual with Down Syndrome, at Monarch’s SIS day program, supporting her with walks, activities and meals. Robin’s ability to give back is a testament to the positive changes she’s experienced, and it gives her purpose every day.
“I look forward to a brighter future,” Robin says. “Monarch has been one of the best things that has happened to me. It’s been a hard life in some ways, but in other ways, it’s been beautiful.”
Monarch’s Role in Robin’s Transformation
Debbie Miller, who worked closely with Robin, witnessed her growth. “She was a sponge soaking up all the information she could learn,” Debbie says, adding that Robin thrived in Care Management services and has shown immense progress.
“My hope for Robin is that she continues to do well, maintain her employment, and care for the people she serves because she enjoys it so much,” Debbie concludes.
Explore More About TCM and Career Opportunities
For more information about North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Tailored Care Management Plans, visit here. Looking for a job opportunity in TCM? Visit here for employment with Monarch across our North Carolina sites.