Recovery Model
At Meridian, we view "best practice" as a continuum that begins with a philosophy, then moves through the identification of a model, program design or platform of service delivery and finally pinpoints specific evidence-based interventions, treatment curriculums, or clinical practices that are employed within the model. Meridian's "best practice" philosophical foundation is one of Recovery. All individuals receiving services are seen as having the potential to recover as well as possessing the ability to develop the skills and resources that are needed to determine their own recovery pathway, to manage their own wellness and to re-discover an identity for themselves that is more than that of an addict or mental patient. Although the concept of recovery has been present in the addiction field for several decades, the concept of recovery as it applies to individuals with mental health disorders is still absent from much of contemporary mental health treatment.
The recovery paradigm challenges professionals to collaborate with individuals receiving services in a manner that is respectful, nonjudgmental, hopeful, transparent and empowering, regardless of the individual's history or diagnosis. Meridian began to embark on a "recovery initiative" in 2004, with the goal of shifting the treatment paradigm as well as transforming our entire organizational culture. After several years of methodical and relentless effort and attention, Meridian has succeeded in meeting our internal goals and is recognized as a leader in the recovery movement in North Carolina.
- Meridian utilizes a range of strategies to make Recovery our "best practice philosophy of service" including:
- All staff are introduced to the recovery philosophy during their first months of employment with a 2-day Recovery "Jump-Start" Training;
- Job descriptions for all adult service staff include responsibility for demonstrating stewardship for the recovery environment, both within their specific program as well as for the organization at large;
- "Recovery skills and attitudes" are seen as key areas of staff performance. Ongoing coaching, by colleagues and supervisors alike, focuses on accountability to the recovery philosophy;
- Policies and procedures have been revised to support the recovery philosophy of care and risk management; risk management decisions are carefully balanced with a commitment to maintaining a recovery environment and respecting a recovery-oriented approach;
- Opportunities are created for Peer Support Specialists to develop unique areas of expertise and leadership
- Clinical consultation is provided from a recovery perspective, looking to emphasize strengths and resilience rather than pathology, empowering individuals to direct their own care;
- Staff and service recipients are continually exposed to personal stories of recovery in order to facilitate hope in the recovery process.
- Organizational strategic planning routinely focuses on recovery competency as a unique area of organizational growth.
WRAP: My name is Pamela Graves. I have had addiction and mental health challenges since I can remember. In 1997, at the height of daily IV drug addiction, I packed my car with hopes of a better life for my 12 year old son and myself. I arrived in NC two days later and began my new life. After many years of studying myself and the various diagnoses I had been given, surviving cancer and other serious health challenges, the loss of loved ones to cancer, and weight loss of 150 lbs, I moved to Western NC and found Meridian Behavioral Health, where I learned of Peer Support Specialists. I am now honored to support my peers in their journey to wellness. I believe that WRAP is a vital component in becoming well and staying well.
