MAMHS Mission / Vision

The Maine Association of Mental Health Services (MAMHS) organizes to reflect and advocate for the collective interests of Mental Health Organizations and their directors at the state and local level. MAMHS analyzes trends in the delivery and financing of mental health services and builds and disseminates knowledge and experience reflecting the integration of public mental health programming in evolving healthcare environments. The Association identifies public mental health policy issues, apprises its members of research findings and best practices in the delivery of mental health services, fosters collaboration, provides consultation and technical assistance, and promotes effective management practices and financing mechanisms adequate to sustain the mission. MAMHS takes action that reflects the position of Mental Health Providers on public mental health issues and coordinates at the state and local level with organizations of related interests. On behalf of the general public, members of MAMHS develop, in partnership with recipients of services, opportunities for an improved quality of life, choice, meaningful employment, stable and affordable housing integrated with the general community, recovery and remission from illness, active participation in community life, and rewarding social interaction with others. State mental health systems seek to create culturally sensitive, competent, and responsive services toward reaching these goals. MAMHS advocates with recipients of mental health services and assists leaders of public mental health systems to promote healthy, self-reliant individuals, relieve mental and emotional distress, strengthen families and promote community responsibility, and respect public safety.

Certain fundamental values guide MAMHS in its activities:

¨ Manage finances and resources responsibly.

¨ Support and promote publicly operated or managed services that are consistent with best practices.

¨ Encourage research toward the development of knowledge to benefit persons with mental illness.

¨ Value diversity and individuality.

¨ Afford respect to all participants and encourage the participation of primary consumers and their families.

¨ Promote cultural competence and sensitivity in the provider community.

¨ Demonstrate integrity and commitment in all actions.

¨ Encourage full participation by all members.