The Therapeutic Community

Riggs’ unique treatment approach is centered around a therapeutic community based on the notion of examined living. The careful exploration of difficult life experiences has the best chance of success if patients are invited to share their strengths with each other and the staff in a serious partnership of mutual problem solving and social learning.

At the core of the therapeutic community is the belief that everyone—patients and staff alike—has something to offer and something to gain by participating. With their own voice as a group of citizens, patients engage in a thoughtful exchange with Riggs staff. Through this exchange, a great deal of personal, social, ethical and organizational learning takes place.

The therapeutic community is structured as a series of interconnected patient/staff groups and programs, ranging from community meetings, social support groups and symptom-focused groups to patient-government structures, Edward R. Shapiro Community Center activities and a Work Program. It is supported by interpersonally-focused nursing and an innovative program of arts and crafts.