Date of Award

4-1977

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

First Advisor

Alan Brown

Second Advisor

Peggy McAllister

Abstract

"Sunshine Outpost" by Nez Smith presents a comprehensive thesis integrating historical, cultural, and conceptual perspectives on mental health care with the proposal for a community-based mental health center in North Hollywood, California. Rooted in the author's academic journey and personal commitment to community service, the document explores the evolution of mental health treatment, from ancient spiritual interpretations to modern-day community psychiatry. It highlights key developments such as moral treatment in the 19th century, the rise and fall of state institutions, and the legislative reforms of the 20th century, including the Short-Doyle Act and the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act in California.

The proposed "Sunshine Outpost" is envisioned as a neighborhood mental health center embedded in the First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood. It aims to provide preventive, outpatient, and rehabilitative services in a non-medical, community-focused setting. The center would primarily serve elderly residents, single-parent families, and minority populations—groups identified as being at high risk for mental health challenges. Emphasizing group processes and therapeutic environments, the project promotes a humanistic and inclusive model of care, where clients are treated with dignity and engaged in personal and communal growth.

The thesis also outlines practical implementation strategies, including community advisory boards, staffing plans, and partnership development with local organizations. Drawing on theories from Caplan, Sullivan, and others, Smith argues that empowering neighborhoods to manage their own mental health services fosters stronger, healthier communities. "Sunshine Outpost" ultimately represents a visionary and deeply personal contribution to community mental health, blending academic rigor with lived experience and advocacy.

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