Geel inspired care for mental health patients

http://faculty.samford.edu/~jlgoldst/usaprgrms.html

citing the author and paper above for this information

"Geel's unique history and experience has created a community virtually devoid of a negative stigma relative to mental illness. On the other hand, It is possible that our own experience, in the United States (particularly when the norm was institutional care for the mentally ill), has produced a separation between those with mental illness and community members.

That separation feeds misconceptions and a negative stigma relative to mental illness

Geel's foster family care system is not necessarily a model that is appropriate for all communities or all clients. In fact, Geel currently offers other alternatives for care and treatment (another example of the communitiy's flexibility). What is more noteworthy when looking at Geel is:

The outcome of a model that allows for near total community integration.

Facilitation of community integration in the absence of a negative, myth-based stigma.

Flexibility in the care of individuals with diverse symptoms and in the services offered for these individuals. A community in this country might qualify as a “recovered community” if, as in Geel, that community:

Acknowledges the human needs of those with mental illness
Responds to those needs by providing social opportunities and meaningful work in the community

Accepts those with mental illness as members of the community
Shows flexibility in programs and approaches in order to address individual needs of clients"



here's one setting:

Spring Lake Ranch, Cuttingsville, VermontEstablished in 1932, by Wayne Sarcka, a Finnish immigrant, and his Long Island wife, Elizabeth Man. Situated by a mountain lake, the programs and social environment were inspired, in part, by Elizabeth’s belief in the value of family life and her familiarity with the Geel community. Residents come to the Ranch from hospitals, home or schools, needing some type of structure and nurturing but not hospitalization. A typical stay is 6-8 months and many leave to enter an after-care program in a nearby community of 18,000. Even while experiencing community integration, however, they can still participate in activities and services at the Ranch.
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Cite information from this web-site as follows:

Goldstein, J. (2009). Geel, Belgium: A Model of "Community Recovery." Samford University Psychology Department, http://faculty.samford.edu/~jlgoldst