topic. How Imogene King's theory of Goal Attainment was used as a theoretical framework for conceptualizing the role and function of a Transitional Residential Program for severely and persistently mentally ill homeless individualspurpose. To demonstrate how a nursing theory can be applied in the development of mental health servicessource. King's theory and associated concepts of personal system, perception, communication, interaction, transaction, role, time, space, growth, and developmentconclusion. Achievement of client goals is possible within a social system characterized by mutual goal setting between clients and staff.