Independent Facilitation

PURPOSE

To provide direction that defines and guides the availability and training of independent facilitators and the supports and training forself-facilitation andperson-centered planning.

DEFINITIONS

Independent Facilitation

The Michigan Mental Health Code requires that independent facilitation be an option for consumers to complete the Person/Family-Centered Planning process (PCP). Independent Facilitators are hired by the CMH as an unbiased facilitator of a PCP meeting to ensure that all parties get to speak and keep the meeting focused on the consumer, his or her needs and goals, and the plan development process.

POLICY

1. CMHSAS-SJC recognizes the importance of individual choice in the support/treatment/recovery process and encourage individuals to identify options and make choices throughout life’s journey

1. AllConsumers shall be afforded increased opportunities for exercising control over planning for their own desired future, as well as assisting others in developing a life plan through identifying personal goals and expectations.

1. Consumers interested in utilizing an independent facilitator will be informed of the means and procedures that can be used to engage the service of an independent facilitator for person-centered planning. The process for using an independent facilitator will commence when any consumer within the CMHSAS-SJC respective service area asks for this service.

1. Consumers interested in facilitating their own person-centered planning meeting or in assisting other individuals will be informed of the duties and responsibilities for independent facilitators and the trainingschedule.

1. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services requirements and instructions for person-centered planning and best practice guidelines for recovery, rehabilitation, and self-managed care and self-determinationshall guide the consumer and staff members in the process for independent facilitation.

PROCEDURE

1. Independent and self-facilitation of person-centered planning arean option for CMHSAS-SJC consumers

1. The use of an independent facilitator or self-facilitation for person-centered planning shall be a voluntary option on the part of the consumer.

1. The consumer, parent, guardian and/or primary service provider will respond to a request for independent or self-facilitation by providing information and any other assistance necessary for the consumer to obtain the desired level of facilitation.

1. Consumers electing an independent facilitator shall be offered a choice of individuals who have completed required training in both meeting facilitation and in person-centered planning. There will be no charge to the consumer for the use of an independent facilitator.

1. The PIHP, through the Self-DeterminationCommittee, will monitor and revise methods, as necessary, that afford consumers the option of independent or self-facilitation for person-centered planning.

The Self-DeterminationCommittee is responsible for informing consumers and primary service providers about independent and self-facilitation through:

1. Written information such as brochures, flyers, etc.

1. Presentations at management meetings throughout the PIHP.

1. Presentations to consumer, advocate, and community groups.

1. Availability for unit, team, and/or individual consultation.

1. Training on Meeting Facilitation will be made available to anyone who is interested in facilitating a person-centered planning meeting, including those who wish to facilitate their own planning meeting.

1. Qualified Independent Facilitators (those who have completed the training) will be compensated by CMHSAS-SJC at a rate designated by CMHSAS-SJC.

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