[Points of reference to distinguish Case Management from Assertive Community Treatment.]

The author proposes a synthesis of the essential elements to distinguish Case Management from Assertive Community Treatment with people suffering from severe mental illness. By situating these two approaches in their social context, the author identifies points of reference that allow to distinguish them one from the other on both practical and conceptual levels. This exercise allows to dissipate the widespread confusion in the literature as well as give clinical workers the necessary tools to identify the appropriate models to meet the needs of the clientele. This also implies taking into consideration the characteristics of the system in which they intervene for its configuration exerts a considerable influence on their work.