Principles for the behavioral health system

The department and any entity which receives funding through a state contract to provide services to persons with needs relating to behavioral health, as defined in R.S. 28:2, shall provide, to the maximum extent possible, behavioral health treatment, services, and supports which are consistent with the following principles: (1) Treatment, services, and supports assist in enabling people to exercise self-determination in their lives. (2) Treatment, services, and supports assist in enabling people to achieve their maximum potential through increased independence, productivity, and inclusion in their communities. (3) Personal outcomes and goals are considered in the development of individualized supports for each person. (4) The community where the person chooses to live and work is an appropriate place to provide treatment, supports, and services. (5) Persons with behavioral health needs are generally best able to determine their own needs, rather than their needs being determined by others. (6) For children with behavioral health needs, the needs of the entire family should be considered in the development of family supports. (7) Family supports may enable children to live in stable family environments with enduring relationships with one or more adults regardless of the severity of the behavioral health needs of the child or the degree of support necessary. (8) Children and young adults with behavioral health needs receive and participate in an appropriate education which enables them to have increased opportunities for well being, development, and inclusion in their communities. (9) Existing natural supports and community resources are promoted and utilized.