Positive Practices (formerly Known as Mental Health Support Process – MHSP) is a new name for a longstanding philosophy with it’s roots going back to the beginnings of Positive Approaches and Everyday Lives. Positive Practices is comprised of state, regional, and county workgroups whose focus is to explore and expand local capacity, training, resources, cross system collaboration, and how to meet the needs of the local community, particularly for those individuals who are considered most challenging and those with a dual diagnosis (MH/MR).

The most recent focus of these groups has been the release and support of the Elimination of Restraints through Positive Practices Bulletin #00-06-06. This bulletin focuses on the core philosophies of the Mental Retardation System: an Everyday Life, and person-centered thinking through Positive Practices. This bulletin was developed in conjunction with DPW’s Alternatives to Coercive Techniques (ACT) initiative that is focused on the goal of eliminating the use of restraints throughout the service system.

While this bulletin does not prohibit the use of restraints, it does state that restraints should be considered as a last resort, when the person’s immediate health and safety is in jeopardy. The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has set a goal of a 20% reduction in the use of restraints in each region annually. In support of this, ODP is also piloting a Positive Practices Resource Team (PPRT) in the Central Region. Their purpose is to identify and develop system resources dedicated to address issues pertaining to a person’s behavioral support needs. In addition, each region is being asked to complete a Restraint Elimination Plan for their region, which will be reviewed and input provided by the Positive Practices Statewide Committee. 

Positive Practices Resources

Positive Practices Related Bulletins