Girrebala: An Australian Rehabilitation Program

Abstract

Consumers who have a mental illness of a long term nature experience a range of difficulties which can impede their ability to lead satisfying and meaningful lives in the community. Treatment approaches need to emphasize personal recovery, integration, and rehabilitation to improve long term consumer outcomes. In Australia, there has been the opportunity to examine existing models of mental health care and develop new models, including rehabilitation. The focus in one mental health service has been on developing the skills and abilities of consumers, promoting their talents and achievements, and raising the profile of mental health. This paper describes the development of a psychiatric rehabilitation service where the emphasis has been on consumer and carer participation, collaboration in developing the service, and promoting community acceptance.