Recovery Innovations—Client Operated Peer Supported Mental Health Services

About the Program

Category: Health (Best in Category)

Year: 2012

Recovery from mental illness has been a big priority for many county health plans. However, many fear that recovery can be very difficult. In response, San Diego County has started a program to show that recovery is possible, utilizing the stories of people who have already recovered. The County of San Diego’s Behavioral Health Division launched “Recovery Innovations,” a program that integrates mental health, rehabilitation and recovery services for adults who have serious mental illnesses, to improve their mental health and quality of life. The program is unique in that it is fully client-operated. All persons delivering services through this program have personal experience with being diagnosed with a mental illness. Following best-practice guidelines to ensure consistent, high-quality teachings, Recovery Innovations provides classes throughout the County, led by adults who have struggled with mental illness themselves. Participants develop their own ‘Wellness Recovery Action Plan’ and learn ‘Wellness and Empowerment in Life and Living’ methods to promote their personal recovery journey. The concept of peer support is fully integrated throughout all classes; and teachers and staff serve as role models and mentors to help coach the client in his or her recovery process. The individuals themselves embody the powerful message that Recovery is Possible.