Independent Management Services – Providing Human Services to Southern Minnesota Since 1995

Welcome to Independent Management Services

Providing Human Services to Southern Minnesota Since 1995

Services

Independent Management Services offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. From therapeutic support to skill development and beyond, our team is dedicated to empowering individuals through personalized, client-centered care.

Providers

Our providers are compassionate, highly trained professionals committed to delivering personalized, evidence-based care. With diverse backgrounds in therapy, case management, and skill development, they work collaboratively to support each client’s goals and promote lasting growth and independence.

About

Founded in 1995 by Stephen and Renee Thorson, IMS is dedicated to supporting individuals in achieving their highest level of independence. Through quality staff and personalized services, we help remove barriers and empower each person to thrive as a valued member of the community.

Why Choose us

Client-Centered Approach

We address the full range of needs—behavioral, mental, medical, and financial—to promote true independence.

Dedicated, Skilled Professionals

Our team is made up of skilled professionals dedicated to providing respectful, reliable, and person-focused care.

Local and Accessible

With four convenient locations, in Albert Lea and Austin, we’re part of the communities we serve.

Over 25 Years of Trusted Experience

Since 1995, IMS has been a reliable provider of high-quality, individualized supports and services.

Quality Services

Addiction

Our Addiction Services programs provide a range of outpatient addiction services, including substance use assessments, individual counseling, and group counseling. Services are delivered by a team of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADCs) and Certified Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS) who bring both professional expertise and lived experience to the recovery process.

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Adult Mental Health

Independent Management Services offers two key programs to support adults living with serious mental health conditions: Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services (ARMHS) and Adult Mental Health Targeted Case Management (AMH-TCM). Both services are designed to empower adults to lead healthier, more self-sufficient lives.

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Advocacy

Our Advocacy Services help eligible children and adults in Minnesota with physical or mental health conditions apply for and maintain disability benefits, offering expert support with applications, appeals, and ensuring access to all available benefits—especially for those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

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Children's Mental Health

Through CTSS and Certified Family Peer Specialists (CFPS), we support children and families with therapeutic, in-home, and peer-led services that promote emotional well-being and resilience. We will be adding a day treatment program in 2025.

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Counseling & Therapy

Our licensed therapists and clinical therapist trainees provide personalized mental health support using evidence-based practices such as DBT, CTS, ART, and more, helping individuals navigate challenges and build emotional resilience.

Disability

We provide personalized support through IHS, SILS, and Group Home services, helping individuals with disabilities build skills, live more independently, and thrive in safe, supportive environments.

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Guardianship & Conservatorship

We provide court-appointed guardianship and conservatorship services to ensure the safety, well-being, and financial protection of individuals who are unable to make informed personal or financial decisions on their own.

Housing

We offer Housing Stabilization Services—a Minnesota Medical Assistance HCBS benefit—to help individuals with disabilities, mental illness, substance use disorders, or age-related needs find and maintain stable, community-based housing.

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Medication

Our medication services are led by an experienced APRN who provides evaluations, medication management, and ongoing monitoring to support individuals' mental health and overall well-being.

Client Testimonials

This place has very knowledgeable people working here. They take pride in their work.

Jessica S.

Ims is the best place in the area for Chemical Dependency, Therapy, and Medication management. Everybody that works there is so nice and helpful and I recommend it for anyone that needs additional help with anything they are going through. Highly recommended!

Kaite R.

They have helped me in so many ways.. I would know be with out there help other past 2 years thank so many have helped been there for me

Deb C.

We're Hiring!

IMS is always looking for compassionate, dedicated mental health professionals to join our team. Even if there isn’t a current opening that matches your expertise, we welcome you to connect with us.