BASIC LIVING SKILLS

The Basic Living Skills Program teaches consumers the skills needed to obtain and maintain employment as well as become integrated into their communities. Services are offered in the consumer’s home and in classes at the Oasis Center. The focus is on learning skills to improve personal appearance, selecting appropriate interview clothing, and utilizing public transportation to support employment. Other topics include budgeting, healthy meal selection and preparation, cleaning the home environment, and positive interpersonal skills. Long-term services are provided to ensure the consumer will retain learned skills. This program works closely with Employment Services and the Oasis Center.

Admission Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• DMHAS definition of severe and chronic mental illness
• Resident of Catchment Area 11

A Story: Pasha

Pasha was 45 years old and diagnosed with a severe and chronic mental illness when she was referred to the Basic Living Skills Program. She had poor self-esteem, had not worked in 15 years, and was interested in seeking employment. She would soon be leaving a supported living environment and needed to enhance her skills to achieve independent living.

An initial assessment was completed and areas of need were identified, including: personal hygiene, lack of finances to purchase personal care items and interview clothing, as well as setting up and maintaining her new apartment. The Basic Living Skills staff assisted Pasha with support to obtain personal care items along with developing a plan to maintain her apartment in the community. The plan also included the learning of interview skills and resume writing.

Through scheduled in-home visits and skills development, Pasha is currently maintaining her own apartment. She attends the Oasis Center on a regular basis and reports an increase in her self-esteem. With this increase in self-esteem, Pasha now takes an active role in maintaining her appearance. Pasha is currently working as a clerical assistant while continuing to look at other employment opportunities available in the community. Pasha is in recovery.