MAPS

The Method
Matrix
The core concepts of the MAPS are Area and Phase. These concepts are used both for the description of clients and units/interventions. The theoretical concepts of area and phase have existed separately for more than a decade and they are both well described and investigated. MAPS combines these concepts in a matrix, a three dimensional model.

Area
Area refers to the life areas similar to those used in the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and the European version of the Adolescent Assessment Dialogue (EuroADAD). These structured interviews give a multidimensional profile of adults and adolescents. The areas used in MAPS are; practical, social, physical, psychological, addiction and criminal. The concepts of the areas are similar for all ages groups, countries and institutes, however, the content of the area and the instruments/methods used to gather information in the area's can be adapted to meet specific needs.

Phase
Phase is based on the "Stages of Change" model, developed by Prochaska and DiClemente, which indicates that behaviour change and solving of problems has a pattern in which different steps can be recognized. These steps are pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action and maintenance. At unit level Phase relates to the phases of care. The care process as it is described in MAPS has four sequential stages: basic care, motivation, treatment and consolidation. The phases of care are theoretically based and are related to the stages of change.
Who?

MAPS can be used for research as wells as in the daily practice of care providers. MAPS is a system developed to improve treatment for clients with problems in multiple life areas e.g. psychological and relational problems, unemployment, addictions and criminal behaviour. The method is applicable for all age groups and settings of human care, for example public health and community services, psychiatry, drug treatment, prisons, elderly care and collaborative projects.

Why?
MAPS is based on the client and their needs. The method can be used for structuring and planning treatment, improving cooperation between different care-providers, organizational development and research. By the implementation of MAPS in clinical settings, data is gathered which can be used by professionals, administrators, decision-makers and researchers. Efficiency and economic use of care and interventions can be evaluated and improved with use of MAPS.

How?
MAPS provides a mutual language to describe the diversity in interventions, treatment settings and client problems. This common framework helps professionals and institutes to take position in treatment or in care for their population, profiling their individual expertise and restrictions. MAPS can be adapted to your specific needs without loosing compatibility.