In Jun '08 a Client Forum Explored Consumer-Designed Centers

At the end of June 08, peer leaders from around the county met with ADMHS administrators to discuss consumer-run and proposed operated centers to be established in Santa Barbara County. John Truman, ADMHS Division Chief for Special Projects, chaired the eventful meeting. The purpose of the initial meeting was to plan consumer forums designed to obtain input from a large number of consumers about what they would like to see in consumer-run and operated centers. Ann Detrick, Ph.D., ADMHS Director, is an advocate of consumer-directed centers. In the past, she notes, there has been too much focus on the medical model of care. Persons with mental illness need support and individualized programs. “As we plan the centers, we need to move forward with consumer-designed services focusing on recovery. We must broaden the pool of peer recovery specialists as much possible. How can we put people back in charge of their own lives? “I’m looking to transform the existing programs to be more consumer- directed,” she added. “Clients should get the respect they deserve. How can we help clients obtain the support needed to lead productive lives and engage positively in the community?”

Consumers Share Concerns A number of consumers expressed concerns that the three existing mental health drop- in centers in Santa Barbara County are not adequately meeting the needs of the people they are intended to serve. For instance, people are apparently allowed to sleep in the centers, and there are no programs run by and for Latinos. In addition, those mental health services that do exist are poorly publicized in the Latino community. Francisco Palencia noted that there are a lack of services and educational materials for Spanish-speaking consumers. He suggested that more Latinos be brought into the planning process. Chuck Hughes felt that peer-run centers should offer meaningful involvement opportunities for consumers to plan and implement their own programs. Consumers benefit from associating with others who can provide meaningful advice and support because they have experienced similar situations. Bob Quinn stated that peers will improve the system by serving as navigators. Consumers should be trained as patients’ rights advocates. Peer centers should feature a strong advocacy component. A Learning Community Dr. Detrick felt that we are on a journey, part of learning community. Obtaining broad and ongoing consumer input is very important. Maureen Mina wants opportunities for consumers to acquire vocational and educational skills. We should be partner with the Independent Living Resource Center (ILRC), which has provided truly client-directed programs. The ILRC has a solid track record in providing advocacy and support for clients of other agencies. Instead of reinventing the wheel, we should involve the ILRC in the beginning stages of planning. In response to Debbie Hunt’s question about a timeline for establishing peer-run centers, Dr. Detrick responded that the program should begin to take shape by December. Debbie suggested that when it comes to planning and implementing new peer learning centers, equality among the three regions of the county is very important. Dr. Detrick noted that there are many options available. ADMHS could partner with existing service providers to support client-operated services with the ultimate goal of establishing programs run entirely by consumers. Silvia Perez felt that the existing drop-in centers be examined to determine what works and what doesn’t work. It was also suggested that out-of-county peer-run programs in Ventura, Palmdale and Massachusetts be researched and the results summarized at future client forums. Developing a Vision Bob Quinn felt that a clear vision for the proposed peer learning centers must be developed. This vision should address a number of issues, such as the role of mental health professionals in the centers. The term “drop-in” has negative connotations and should not be used in describing new programs. Dr. Detrick suggested that the centers serve as a hub of consumer activities, a structured resource center with an outreach component. Hiring more consumers will fight stigma as others, including mental health staff, see consumers in a more positive light. Matthew Marz stated that the peer centers should reflect an understanding of the dynamics of being in recovery. People still need supports even after they return to work or school and not be dropped from the center because they have some degree of recovery. Silvia suggested that new support groups be formed prior to the opening of the learning centers. Group members could then transition to the new centers to ensure the program gets off to a good start. Everyone agreed that more consumer input is needed in the planning process, and more client forums will be held as planning moves forward.