The Clubhouse Philosophy

The daily operation of The Denbigh House is patterned after the clubhouse model that was created more than 50 years ago to help people with psychiatric disabilities lead more independent and productive lives. The Denbigh House is one of a handful of clubhouses that have been designed specifically to address the complex needs of people with brain injuries and is currently, one of the largest brain injury clubhouses in the United States.

Clubhouse programs follow a strict set of guidelines that underlie the basic tenets of the program. One of the key components of the clubhouse philosophy is an emphasis on the power of work. Work is a central theme in our adult society, defining both what we do and who we are. At The Denbigh House, staff and members work side by side to run all aspects of the program, from cleaning the bathroom to hiring new staff. Through the process of the work-ordered day, members gain the necessary work skills, behaviors, and self-confidence to become successful upon return to work. Because of this emphasis on work, there is an expectation placed upon every member that his or her presence is not only wanted at the program, but also needed because the program could not function without the involvement of all members.

To learn more about the clubhouse philosophy, read through the clubhouse standards produced by the International Center for Clubhouse Development.