Creating a recovery-oriented system of care for adults with behavioral health challenges is a top priority. This movement represents a shift from a professionally driven acute care approach to an approach that provides long-term supports while recognizing the many pathways to recovery.

In this approach, professional treatment is one aspect among many that support people in managing their own conditions to the greatest extent possible.

Transformation to a recovery orientation in behavioral health service delivery becomes possible by focusing on the central role of individuals and families in responding to, managing, and overcoming these challenges. This focus must be used as an organizing principle for the entire system.

Recovery Transformation consists of four primary strategies:

• Building community capacity
• Enhancing treatment quality
• Changing administrative structures
• Mobilizing people in recovery and their families

Recovery is the process of pursuing a contributing and fulfilling life, regardless of the difficulties one has faced. It involves not only the restoration, but also continued enhancement of a positive identity as well as personally meaningful connections and roles in one's community.

It is facilitated by relationships and environments that promote hope, empowerment, choices, and opportunities that support people in reaching their full potential as individuals and community members.

Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and
Mental Retardation Services
Recovery Advisory Committee, 2006