Program

The Setting

Each Project Transition (PT) community is comprised of approximately 25 members who live in apartments within the same complex. Three roommates share a furnished two-bedroom apartment. Most neighbors of PT members are not associated with our program. This reflects social reality, reinforces normalcy and responsibility, and reduces stigma. Two nearby apartments serve as the activity hub of the program – this is where community meetings, group therapies and workshops, and individual sessions occur. There is also a computer for PT members. We provide transportation services, public transportation is nearby, and some of our members have cars. Our staff team is on-site throughout the day and evenings (until around 9 p.m.), and our 24/7 crisis response system is as close as the phone.

Our Setting

Values and Focus

Project Transition is guided by healing and hope. Even in the presence of painful struggles, we believe that personal recovery through self-management can occur.

“Bio-psychosocial” describes our focus. “Bio” describes the appreciation of a biologically-based model of health and healing. This includes the mind/body connection, brain functioning and chemistry, and overall wellness. Examples of “bio” at PT include:

“Psychosocial” describes the ways that our communities foster relationships and self-management, restore hope and functioning, and sustain personal recovery. This occurs through:

Another aspect of “psychosocial” relates to spirituality - the search for meaning that acknowledges a higher purpose. We believe that this is achieved through introspection, empathy, and social responsibility.

Our Work is Specialized

The experience of psychiatric difficulties is highly personal. Although we recognize that diagnostic terms can be helpful, it is the person that matters. Project Transition helps individuals with a variety of diagnoses. This diversity is essential, for individual differences encourage support to be given and received.

Each branch of PT has distinctive programs for adults and young adults. The links below describe our specific approaches:

Conversational

An Individualized Approach

The typical week of program activities is unique for each Project Transition member due to differences of need, readiness, employment or college coursework, and level of care. Before getting into the nuts and bolts of the program schedule, we’ll introduce our levels of care.

When a person first comes to PT, he or she receives the maximal level of structure and support. Over time and with progress, the person’s schedule evolves to reflect the right mix of clinical services, supports, leisure, and independence. We also support the person in volunteering, working, or college coursework.

Many members leave PT gradually as they develop relationships and social networks in the natural community. We practice the concept of “human bridge” -- as a person navigates transitions with more autonomy, his or her relationships with staff and peers remain constant and meaningful. The intensity of supports and supervision gradually recedes, important relationships are sustained, and confidence grows. When setbacks occur, a safety net is already in place.

“The staff members of PT respond to my daughter as a whole person, not as a mental patient. Even when things get difficult, the staff are flexible, practical, and creative. ”
— Judith M., mother of a PT member

Activities and Services

Visitors often comment that Project Transition feels both busy and friendly. Our weekdays are structured with a variety of activities (evenings and weekends are more laid back):

Skill Development Deli_Guy Health