Deaf Services Recognized for Progressive Methods

The Deaf Services program of the South Carolina Department of Mental Health was recently featured in a special issue of the Mental Health Weekly. Looking at innovative programs, the Deaf Services program was recognized for its progressive approach to meeting the needs of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and have mental health needs. Started in 1989, the program was named as a finalist in the Innovations in American Government Awards in 1999. Since that time, the program has continued to be a pioneer in services to this community and South Carolina is one of the few states reaching out to this community in the mental health arena.

Since inception, the Deaf Services program has combined innovative use of technology with an emphasis on cultural and linguistic accessibility. This has resulted in a steady decline in the cost per client and an increase in the numbers of clients served. Recent improvements have included the addition of children's services, the start of peer support services and the use of videophones to enable clients and staff to communicate directly using American Sign Language. The program also has an internship site for students from all over the country and is working to support the USC Rehabilitation Program in the School of Medicine as they develop training for individuals wanting to work in this area.