Mental Health Outreach to Persons Who are Homeless: Implications for Practice from a Statewide Study

In order to help states establish best practice standards for mental health outreach and engagement teams for persons who are homeless, this study aimed to identify key functional elements needed to effectively address the multiple needs of these persons. A statewide survey across six representative outreach programs was initiated in Connecticut. Focus groups with staff and clients, interviews with program administrators, shadowing of outreach workers on their rounds, and review of relevant written materials were conducted. Four main functional themes regarding optimal outreach work-constructive outreach team characteristics; availability of a wide range of services and resources for clients; navigation of multiple service systems; and favorable work demands and training opportunities-were identified through thematic analysis. The article concludes with recommendations for incorporating these four essential functional elements into mental health outreach and engagement practice to effectively meet the varied needs of the target group.