Clubhouse Psychiatry

DEFINITION

• Community-based mental health services model originally intended as a prevocational work-readiness program. Sites are called “clubs,” and participants are referred to as “members.” Clubs help people with a history of serious mental illness rejoin and maintain a place in society, and receive education, work training, and social support.
• Key clubhouse model features:
  • Build on peoples’ strengths, not focusing on their illnesses
  • Promote support for physical and mental healthcare
  • Provide structured day programs
  • Incorporate a social franchise model
  • Advocate for governmental and philanthropic support