CATIE and the value of atypical antipsychotics in the context of creating a recovery-oriented behavioral health system.

This paper discusses the implications of CATIE findings within the context of an active recovery-oriented systems transformation effort of the Philadelphia behavioral health system. The authors argue that atypical antipsychotics should maintain an important role in a transformed system, but that symptom reduction and medication compliance should not remain the cornerstones of treatment services. The findings suggest that we need to better understand and positively influence the therapeutic relationship between consumers and providers as they relate to treatment participation and engagement. Psychotropic medications need to be discussed within the context of developing positive, empowering therapeutic relationships and offering psychosocial rehabilitation supports that together can enhance functional outcomes that individuals most desire. Examples of specific efforts to develop a CATIE-informed, recovery-oriented systems transformation are offered.