Crisis: 888-568-1112
Belfast Office: (207) 338-2295
Rockland Office: (207) 701-4400
Toll-free: 800-540-2072
E-mail: info@mcmentalhealth.org 

This is a summary of your rights as a recipient of outpatient services under the Rights of Recipients of Mental Health Services.

You have a right to obtain a full copy of the Rights from this agency or from the Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation. (opens in new window)

• Individualized Treatment or Service Plan.   You have the right to an individualized plan, developed by you and your worker, based upon your needs and goals.  The plan must be in writing and you have the right to a copy of it.  The plan needs to specifically detail what everyone will do, the time frames in which the tasks and goals will be accomplished and how success will be determined.  The plan must be based upon your actual needs and, if needed service is not available, detail how your need will be met.
  
• Informed Consent.  No services or treatment can be provided to you against your wishes.  If you have a guardian, he or she may be authorized to make decisions without your consent.  You have the right to be informed of the possible risks and anticipated benefits of all services and treatment, including medications, in a manner which you understand.  If you have any questions, you may ask your worker or anyone else you choose before making decisions about treatment or services.  If a guardian has been authorized to make decisions for you, the guardian has the right to be fully informed of all risks and benefits of proposed treatment or services.
  
  
  ASSISTANCE IN THE PROTECTION
  OF YOUR RIGHTS
  
• You have the right to appoint a representative of your choice to help you understand your rights, protect your rights or help you work out a treatment or service plan.  If you wish a representative, you must designate this person in writing.  You can have access to the representative at any time you wish and you can change or cancel the designation at any time.
• Freedom from Seclusion and Restraint. You cannot be secluded or restrained in an out-patient setting.
  
• Right to File a Grievance.  You have the right to bring a grievance to challenge any possible violation of your rights or any questionable practices.  You have the right to have your grievance answered in writing, with reasons for the decision.  You may appeal any decision to the Division of Mental Health.  Click here.