Innovative Programs for Successful Living
Supported Independent Living Program
The Supported Independent Living Program is a treatment option geared specifically for those clients who need continuing care and are not candidates at this time for either the short-term Satellite Program or independent living. The Supported Independent Living Program provides secure, open-ended housing with full supervision, structure, and a wide range of activities. Emphasis is two-fold: first, reinforcement of clients' current level of functioning is stressed; second, clients are encouraged to seek or broaden community activities and to live as independently as is therapeutic for them. However, the goals of total independent living and employment in the community are not implied expectations.
This program strongly emphasizes recreational activities and outings as well as development of hobbies and fulfilling use of leisure time.
The Supported Independent Living Program Director oversees the program's structure, staffing, and activities, and contacts other care providers involved in the clients' treatment. Staff therapists and professional consultants provide 24-hour supervision seven days per week to maintain the daily program structure and to implement community outings. Professional consultants include a psychiatrist, an art therapist, a creative arts specialist, a movement therapist and a recreational therapist.
Intern counselors provide further recreational activities for the clients and act as social facilitators or "community friends."
Clients are expected to maintain personal hygiene, launder their clothes and clean their apartments. Clients are required to have basic skills in the areas of food planning and preparation, and should be able to monitor and administer their own medications. For clients who have difficulty following through in these areas, staff will motivate and assist individuals when needed. The goal is to provide a successful living environment with a balance between personal responsibility and help from staff to facilitate an increased sense of self-esteem.
Participation in various groups and activities is part of each client's treatment plan. An Independent Living Skills Group addresses daily practical issues. Group therapy offers an opportunity to explore relationships and inter- and intra-personal issues. Outings and craft activities provide a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment. Creative Arts groups offer an alternative to verbal therapy, as the nonverbal mode has been used successfully in working with this clientele. The emphasis in these groups is acknowledging a sense of community, building relationships with peers and staff, and increasing self-esteem.
Support is offered to all families. The emphasis is on education regarding issues of mental health, developing communication skills, sharing information and providing support for the family as a whole. Contact with the family is an integral part of the clients' treatment upon entry, during residency and at discharge.
A psychiatrist monitors each client's medication regimen. A team approach to treatment assures proper medication review.
Clients may choose to make this program their permanent home. Individuals who have shown increased independence in the areas of medication, daily living skills and time management may discuss with staff and family the possibility of moving to an unsupervised living environment. Staff will assist families in securing appropriate placement. The Sanctuary Psychiatric Centers Outpatient Services Program is available to graduates of the Supported Independent Living Program.
