MKERR RESPITE PROGRAM

The Michael Kerr Respite Facility is a 24-hour thirty-day residential program serving five consumers with a psychiatric diagnosis or co-occurring psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. The MKERR program follows the SMHA harm reduction guidelines and encourages residents, to the maximum extent possible, to participate in the activities of daily living while in the program. Client education is an integral part of helping residents learn the necessary skills for maintaining independence in the community. Staff support and teaching of basic living skills occur individually and in group settings and are geared toward the clients’ needs. Residents must be able to follow program rules and a reasonable relapse policy in support of ongoing recovery.

Admission Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• DMHAS definition of severe and chronic mental illness
• Axis I psychiatric diagnosis with or without co-existing substance abuse
• Resident of Catchment Area 11 or 12
• Requires 24-hour on-site supervision
• Requires maximum to moderate assistance with ADL functioning
• Willingness to live in a structured environment and follow
  program rules
• Physically able to manage the living environment
• Voluntary participation

A Story: Suzanne

In her late 30’s, Suzanne has had major depressive disorder for most of her adult life. After an episode that led to a hospitalization, she was referred to the Michael Kerr Respite Facility. While living at MKERR, Suzanne also attended the Partial Hospitalization Program and received Case Management services. Suzanne’s team of service providers, with her full participation, developed a recovery plan intended to facilitate her full reintegration into the community. 

Throughout her illness, Suzanne has maintained employment, and following her discharge, she was able to return to work. With the help of MKERR staff, Suzanne learned basic living skills that have enabled her to locate and maintain her own apartment. She is now able to easily navigate the local bus system to get to work and provide for her other needs. Learning more about nutrition at MKERR also motivated her to enter a weight reduction program that has been very successful.