WHAT IS CASE MANAGEMENT?
Case management is a way of helping people get the care and services they need by connecting them to the right resources. A case manager works with a person to understand their situation, make a plan, and support them as they find doctors, housing, mental health care, job help, or other services. The goal is to improve the person’s quality of life by making sure they don’t have to figure everything out on their own.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
Passion-Driven Service
This isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. We are genuinely committed to every person’s well-being and long-term success. Our passion to serve goes beyond the basics; we walk alongside you with unwavering support, empathy, and encouragement at every step.
Deep, Hands-On Experience
With years of real-world work supporting individuals and families in diverse situations, we know how to cut through complexity and help you find the best solutions. Our experience means you get guidance that’s practical, informed, and proven to make a difference.
Autonomy & Choice
We put you at the center. You direct your goals, your pace, and your level of involvement—without the red tape or limitations of insurance-based services. Our support is shaped around your unique needs and what matters most to you.
Relentless Advocacy
We are your champions—in appointments, with agencies, and throughout your journey. We don’t just offer advice—we fight for your rights, help you access services, and make sure your voice is always heard.
True Resourcefulness
No challenge is too big, no system too complex. We excel at finding resources, building creative solutions, and connecting you with the support you might not even realize exists. Barriers don’t stop us; they inspire us to dig deeper.
Results-Oriented Support
We don’t just plan; we help you achieve real, measurable progress—whether it’s better health, more stability, or meaningful change in your daily life. Your goals are our goals, and your success is our success.
Multidisciplinary Team—Same Heart & Values
Our team isn’t just highly qualified—it’s unified in its approach. Each professional brings their own expertise, but we all share a steadfast commitment to compassion, cultural competency, integrity, and respect for your autonomy. You get a full circle of support, all anchored by the same values.
WHO WE SERVE
Authentically Aligned Living's culturally competent team specializes in supporting individuals in the state of South Carolina:
• Individuals with commercial insurance seeking private case management or care coordination services for themselves or loved ones with complex physical or mental conditions.
• Self-Pay clients looking for coordination of services and advocacy without barriers and limitations of insurance.
• Medicaid/Medicare-eligible individuals requiring coordinated care and benefit navigation.
• Individuals with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) or Substance Use Disorders (SUD) in need of integrated behavioral health support.
• Children and youth with complex behavioral needs requiring specialized developmental interventions.
• Individuals with intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities seeking community integration support.
• Elderly individuals with chronic care needs requiring long-term care coordination.
• Reentry and justice-involved populations transitioning back into community settings.
Whether you’re facing a life transition, seeking greater independence, or simply needing an advocate on your side, we’re here and ready to help you create a brighter, more aligned path forward, in every facet of life.
Meet Our Staff at Authentically Aligned Living
The team at Authentically Aligned Living is a diverse group of professionals united by a shared passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Our staff includes experts from a range of disciplines—nursing, social work, counseling, health advocacy, and care coordination—bringing together a wealth of experience and perspectives to address the complex needs of our clients. We are committed to serving individuals from all walks of life, including those facing chronic illnesses, disabilities, mental health challenges, and transitional life stages. Our culturally competent team is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where every client feels seen, heard, and respected. Driven by compassion and a relentless focus on outcomes, our staff works collaboratively to develop and implement care plans that are as unique as the individuals we serve. We measure our success by the real, lasting improvements in our clients’
D. Lawton - CEO & Certified Case Manager
Resourceful and deeply experienced, Ms. Lawton is dedicated to guiding clients through life’s challenges with a blend of creative problem-solving and heartfelt support. Known for cultural sensitivity and an unwavering respect for every individual’s autonomy, she tailors solutions that honor your values, background, and goals.
With a zeal for advocacy and a genuine zest for life, Ms. Lawton brings energy, hope, and encouragement to every step of your journey. Whether you’re facing obstacles big or small, she works tirelessly to remove barriers—connecting you with the right resources, support systems, and opportunities.
Ethics and integrity are at the core of her practice, ensuring every decision and recommendation is rooted in your best interests. More than a guide, Ms. Lawton is a trusted partner—empowering you to move forward with confidence and optimism, no matter where life takes you.
T. Thomas - Licensed Master Social Worker
With extensive experience and heartfelt dedication, Mrs. Thomas meets clients exactly where they are by offering guidance with empathy, respect, and genuine warmth. Every person’s journey is honored, and every culture and background is embraced with care and sensitivity.
Known for her charisma and positive spirit, she creates a space where hope can grow even through life’s toughest challenges. Grounded in unwavering ethics and a client-centered approach, Mrs. Thomas empowers individuals to shape their own futures and make choices that fit their lives.
Whether you need a steady advocate, a supportive listener, or a champion for your goals, Mrs. Thomas stands ready to walk beside you—bringing experience, cultural awareness, and a belief in the possibilities ahead.
D. Rierson - LPC - Therapist
With a heart for healing and a passion for empowering others, Ms. Rierson brings years of compassionate experience to every client relationship. Grounded in cultural awareness and genuine respect for each individual’s unique journey, her approach is rooted in empathy, autonomy, and unwavering professionalism.
Dedicated to ethical, client-centered care, Ms. Rierson works collaboratively—partnering with clients, families, and multidisciplinary teams to create safe spaces for growth and honest conversation. Every person’s voice matters, and every path is honored.
Whether navigating life transitions, facing mental health challenges, or building new skills for wellness, Ms. Rierson provides expert guidance with warmth and integrity—helping each client move forward with dignity, confidence, and clarity.
C. DeRosier - VA Case Manager
Mr. DeRosier leverages extensive knowledge of Veterans Affairs systems to ensure veteran clients receive the benefits and services they've earned. His expertise spans VA healthcare networks, disability compensation, and veteran-specific resources, allowing me to navigate complex systems efficiently.
Mr.DeRosier maintains unwavering professionalism while building trust through personalized, culturally competent care. Client education is central to my approach, and I ensure veterans and their families understand their benefits, rights, and care options at every step.
Working exclusively for my clients, I provide persistent advocacy when benefits are delayed and creative problem-solving when traditional approaches fall short. My extensive VA and civilian provider network ensures comprehensive care addressing physical, mental, and social needs.
J. Smalls - LPC - Intake Coordinator
Ms. Smalls serves as the dedicated intake coordinator. She brings a wealth of expertise and a genuine passion for helping others to her role. With years of experience in client-facing positions, she has mastered the art of rapport building, quickly earning the trust and confidence of new clients through her warm, approachable demeanor.
As a dedicated advocate for underserved communities, Ms. Smalls is committed to dismantling barriers to mental health access and empowering clients to reclaim their well-being. Her patient-centered approach emphasizes dignity, cultural competence, and collaborative care planning that honors each client's unique strengths and experiences.
Ms. Small's therapeutic expertise includes addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Her professionalism, clinical skill, and genuine commitment to improving lives and communities make her an invaluable member of the Authentically Aligned Living team.
SERVICES WE PROVIDE:
Case Management
Case management helps you move forward, overcome obstacles, and make the best choices for your health, safety, and overall quality of life. Our team is here to simplify complex systems, reduce your stress, and empower you—so you can focus on living well.
Group Support
Support groups are welcoming, confidential spaces where individuals and families can connect with others experiencing similar challenges or life transitions. Led by experienced professionals, these groups offer a sense of community, shared understanding, and practical guidance in a judgment-free environment.
Wrap-Around Services
Wraparound services mean you get whole-person support for every part of your life—not just one issue at a time. We look at the “big picture” to help you connect the dots across medical care, mental health, financial needs, and more, so nothing falls through the cracks.