The psychosocial clubhouse is a consumer-driven rehabilitation model with a vocational focus which harnesses the benefits of client empowerment to increase members’ skills and work preparedness and assist them in obtaining employment.
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.
Vocational services at the Treehouse include:
- Weekly member planning sessions and committees
- Internships for members as: Group Activity Leaders, Peer Support Specialists or Administration and Outreach Workers
- Skill-building activities, including cooking lessons
- Job support from peers and the vocational specialist
- Community internships and volunteer and paid job placements
- Volunteer work opportunities include the twice-weekly Farmer’s Market, Emergency Family Assistance Association (EFAA), Humane Society, Boulder Community Gardens and other locations.
Social components include:
Weekly hikes, game and movie nights, talent shows, and other activities
- Community and relationship building
- Opportunities for teamwork and conflict resolution
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.
