The Importance of Fit in Mental Health Treatment

Experts explain why a person-centered approach is crucial for engagement and recovery.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:19pm

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A ghostly, glowing X-ray image of a human brain, its intricate internal structures visible in translucent detail, conveying the complex relationship between mental health and spiritual awareness.An X-ray view into the mind reveals the delicate balance between mental illness and profound spiritual experiences.NYC Today

Even when the right treatment options are available, a person may still resist engaging with mental health services. Experts say this often comes down to a lack of 'fit' between the treatment plan and the person's values, priorities, and lifestyle. By tailoring treatment to support what matters most to the individual, mental health professionals can improve motivation and outcomes.

Why it matters

This story highlights the need for a more personalized, flexible approach to mental health care. When treatment aligns with a person's identity, roles, and daily life, they are more likely to actively participate in their own recovery. This person-centered model contrasts with rigid, one-size-fits-all systems that can alienate patients and undermine their progress.

The details

The article cites the recovery model developed by psychologist Patricia Deegan, which emphasizes shaping treatment around the person's life, rather than trying to fit the person into a standardized treatment plan. This can mean addressing issues like medication side effects interfering with a person's identity or daily responsibilities, or scheduling conflicts between appointments and meaningful activities. Even when a person lacks insight into their mental illness, connecting treatment to their existing values and priorities can help improve engagement.

  • The author's first psychotic episode occurred during a meditation retreat in the past.
  • The author continued to experience psychotic episodes on and off for several years after the initial incident.

The players

Patricia Deegan

A psychologist who pioneered a recovery model that is person-centered and person-directed, rather than fitting people into standardized treatment.

Victoria Maxwell

The author of the article, who shares her personal experience with mental health treatment that did not initially fit her spiritual beliefs and values.

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What they’re saying

“When treatment supports the life a person is trying to build, engagement and hope tend to improve.”

— Patricia Deegan, Psychologist

“Instead of insisting that I had a mental illness and meds were the optimal way to treat it, she listened, without an agenda—or at least with a well-hidden agenda.”

— Victoria Maxwell, Author

“He explained I could have a mental illness and profound experiences. Neither one had to cancel the other out.”

— Victoria Maxwell, Author

What’s next

Readers are encouraged to research the recovery model developed by psychologist Patricia Deegan, which emphasizes a person-centered approach to mental health treatment.

The takeaway

This story underscores the importance of tailoring mental health care to the individual's values, priorities, and lifestyle. By fostering a sense of agency and connection, this personalized approach can improve treatment engagement and support a person's overall well-being and recovery.