Welcome to MIFAST, a specialized section on IMP for trained fidelity reviewers of the Michigan Fidelity Assistance Support Teams. MIFAST teams help existing evidence-based practice (EBP) teams measure how closely the practice (or treatment) matches the model.  Evidence-based programs (EBPs) are those that have been shown to have positive outcomes through repetitive research.  Trained reviewers visit the teams to determine the current degree of fidelity. Technical assistance is offered and free when needed; MIFAST visits are not audits or site reviews, but instead are technical assistance visits provided by other trained staff who have or are providing the same practice or service.  Visits are collegial and provided on a schedule commensurate with the previous MIFAST scores.   

Close matches, or high fidelity, in the EBP to the model, result in teams and consumers, or clients, reaching outcomes that the EBP practice was developed to reach.  Recovery outcomes for consumers to do with health, home, purpose and community can be measured and are markers of success.  
According to SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, The 10 fundamental components of mental health recovery include the following principles:

• Self-Direction. Individuals determine their own path of recovery with autonomy, independence, and control of their resources.
• Individualized and Person-Centered. There are multiple pathways to recovery based on an individual’s unique strengths as well as his or her needs, preferences, experiences, and cultural background.
• Empowerment. Consumers have the authority to participate in all decisions that will affect their lives, and they are educated and supported in this process.
• Holistic. Recovery encompasses an individual’s whole life, including mind, body, spirit, and community. Recovery embraces all aspects of life, including housing, social networks, employment, education, mental health, and health care treatment, and family supports.
• Non-Linear. Recovery is not a step-by-step process but one based on continual growth, occasional setbacks, and learning from experience.
• Strengths-Based. Recovery focuses on valuing and building on the multiple capacities, resiliencies, talents, coping abilities, and inherent worth of individuals. The process of recovery moves forward through interaction with others in supportive, trust-based relationships.
• Peer Support. Mutual support plays an invaluable role in recovery. Consumers encourage and engage others in recovery and provide each other with a sense of belonging.
• Respect. Eliminating discrimination and stigma is crucial in achieving recovery. Self-acceptance and regaining belief in oneself is particularly vital.
• Responsibility. Consumers have a personal responsibility for their own self-care and journeys of recovery. Consumers identify coping strategies and healing processes to promote their own wellness.
• Hope. Hope is the catalyst of the recovery process and provides the essential and motivating message of a positive future. Peers, families, friends, providers, and others can help foster hope.

• What is MIFAST?
• How we conduct MIFAST?
• Why MIFAST?