Authors: Carolyn Perry, Petra Doerfling
Year: 2017
Event: 2017 TheMHS Conference
Subject: Wellbeing,Change, Innovation, Reform,Reducing Stigma and Discrimination,Service Systems, Delivery, Implementation
Type of resource: Conference Presentations and Papers
Abstract: This presentation will examine how a holistic client centred mental health service can successfully operate in a rural community when co-located with a service that prides itself on working within a paradigm of healing: promoting physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.
The common values of Floresco and the Laidley Natural Therapies Centre work in an integrated and collaborative manner recognising the importance of reducing stigma in a therapeutic landscape of acceptance, welcome and sensory appeal.
This presentation will demonstrate how shared values in co-location and a desire to benefit community well-being can rekindle feelings of hopefulness and optimism in a community that was depleted by natural disaster.
Many individuals in this community have been overwhelmed by stigma. The Natural Therapies Centre provides a place of safety; where alternative modes of enhancing wellbeing are acceptable. A rural community that was without adequate mental health service delivery has now more options to enhance its well-being.
The development of this model has meant cross-referrals, shared resources and a greater access to mind and body wellness tools. It brings to life the fact that mental health and well-being can be accessed, maintained and fine-tuned through multiple modalities.
Learning Objectives
Learning Objective 1: Delegates will take away an understanding of how successful co-location based on the shared values of holistic healing can transform the traditional approach of being treated for a mental health issue to one of enhancing overall well-being in an uplifting environment.
Learning Objective 2: Delegates will recognise that it is possible for the non for profit sector and the business sector to work together for the benefit of the community and that the sharing of resources and innovative ideas provides a richer experience for clients to optimise their health and well-being.
References
Collinge, W., Wentworth, R., & Sabo, S. (2005) Integrating Complimentary Therapies into Mental Health Practice: An Exploration. The Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine, 11 (3), 569-574.
Russinova, Z., Wewiorski, N &Cash, D. (2002) Use of alternative care practices by persons with serious mental illness: perceived benefits. American Journal of Public Health. 92 (10), 1600-1603.
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