Best Practices

While the agency did not nominate any Best Practices, the team believes that these services meet the Best Practice criteria. 

• The PMHS lending library, which includes well over one thousand resources, is recognized by the community, consumers, and the site review team as exemplary. Resources address all learning channels (books, audiotapes, videotapes, and therapeutic games), include materials that are age appropriate for all levels, and are selected based on consumer input. Furthermore, a comprehensive list of the library inventory is shared with other agencies and any individual who wants the list. This service has significant impact in fostering consumer self-determination and healing.
• Agency-wide availability of light therapy for seasonal affective syndrome/disorder is also recognized by the site review team and the community as meeting the intent of the Best Practice designation.
• The PMHS Case Management training module, complete with an extensive written guide, is also recognized by the team and staff as eligible for Best Practice consideration. The exceptional training materials result in quality services for consumers and maximize service delivery.

Areas of Excellence

The team considers these aspects of the agency to be superior: 

1. Community collaboration with law enforcement is a model for the state, and has resulted in constantly enhanced service delivery and improved quality of life for community members.
2. PMHS staff have worked to establish and maintain a safe, comfortable, and respectful environment in terms of both physical space as well as emotional climate. Interviewees and team members observed a consistency in professionalism and consumer-centered practice. Confidentiality is reportedly maintained at the most respectful level.
3. The PMHS Board of Directors has one of the highest consumer representations in the state. Consumer influence and integrity is exceptionally valued, and results in enhanced consumer-driven services.
4. The craft/skill development groups have been described by respondents as an outstanding contribution to the self-confidence and healing of consumers. This service is identified by the team as a promising practice that has already had excellent impact.
5. The level of employee satisfaction is outstanding. All employees of the agency were interviewed and consistently reported a sense of dedication, pride in their agency, and cooperative teamwork that contribute to positive outcomes for consumers.
6. The community integration of the agency and community acceptance of its services are exceptional. This supports the work of the agency and their consumers toward eliminating the stigma of mental illness.
7. The Director's consistency, professional leadership, and dedication have resulted in an agency that is a model for communities throughout the state. The Director has continued to lead PMHS on a course of steady, responsible growth and development that is community based and consumer driven. The activities of the Director instill a sense of hope in consumers, staff, related agencies, and the community in general.
8. The agency is exceptional in providing services for scheduled appointments seven days per week. This flexibility is tremendously appreciated by consumers, and respects work and school schedules.