The Treehouse is a social-vocational center run by and for Colorado Recovery clients. The program helps prepare our clients for success in relationships, volunteer work, education and training, internships and job placements.
Our program is based on the clubhouse model of psychosocial rehabilitation, which focuses on providing support and opportunities for people with mental illness. Clubhouse participants are called ‘members’ as opposed to ‘patients.’ The clubhouse model differs from a clinical program in that there are no therapists on staff—just community organizers and vocational specialists. Within the clubhouse, member development focuses on strengths and abilities, rather than on illness.
The Treehouse provides a space that clients can call their own. The clubhouse community organizers and vocational specialist use an empowerment-based model that focuses on developing the members’ leadership skills. Thus, members are central to decision-making processes and program development.
With the support of our community organizers, the members furnished the space to be inviting and comfortable. The Treehouse has its own kitchen, projector and movie screen, computers, wireless Internet access, and an assortment of board games. Our plants, lounge area and deck with incredible mountain views create an ideal atmosphere for breaks from the therapy environment.
We also participate in events and community service in the wider Colorado community, such as the fundraiser walk for the Colorado National Alliance on Mental Illness.
