Importance of Project/Issue

I currently work, and have worked, with individuals who have severe and persistent mental illness. In my current role as a director for Southwest Missouri Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center, I work closely with those serving such a vulnerable population. We see such a high risk for re-hospitalization and risk of suicide. There are significant risk factors for re-hospitalization demonstrated in this report, and this program serves as an alternative to inpatient hospitalization for those who may benefit in a less acute setting. We see very clearly the financial strain on our current system. Further, that couple with multiple inpatient hospitalizations are not conducive to the success and wellness being of the individual. The program evaluation on this unique hospital diversion, which is the only one of its kind in the state of Missouri, shows increased in social support and coping indicating a successful implementation of this program.

Skills, competencies, &/or capacities learned

• Evaluate, select, and implement appropriate multidimensional assessment, diagnostic, intervention, and practice evaluation tools.
• Research and apply knowledge of diverse populations to enhance client well-being.
• Use knowledge of the effects of oppression, discrimination, and historical trauma on client and client systems to guide treatment planning and intervention.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of multiple theoretical perspectives and differentially apply them to client situations.