From Structural Chaos to a Model of Consumer Support: Understanding the Roles of Structure and Agency in Mental Health Recovery for the Formerly Homeless

Abstract

Deinstitutionalization shifted the focus in mental health care from provider-guided treatment to consumer-centered recovery. In this article, I seek to develop a deeper understanding of the effect that the organization of mental health services offered in community settings has on the recovery process. I do this by presenting findings from the analysis of focus group and interview data collected from consumers and staff at four housing programs serving formerly homeless individuals with dual diagnosis. My findings highlight the importance of understanding the connection that exists between social structure and personal agency and the recovery process.