IPS Supported Employment

IPS Supported Employment is a model of employment services designed to help individuals with serious mental illness obtain and maintain competitive employment. The model is based on the principles of Individual Placement and Support (IPS), which emphasizes rapid job search, integration with mental health services, and ongoing support.

Principles of IPS Supported Employment

IPS Supported Employment is guided by several key principles:

• Competitive Employment: The goal is to help individuals find jobs in the open labor market that pay at least minimum wage and are not set aside for people with disabilities.

• Zero Exclusion: There are no eligibility requirements or prerequisites for participation. Anyone who expresses a desire to work is eligible for services.

• Integration with Mental Health Services: Employment services are integrated with mental health treatment teams to ensure coordinated care.

• Rapid Job Search: The focus is on quickly finding jobs rather than lengthy pre-employment assessments or training.

• Systematic Job Development: Employment specialists develop relationships with employers to identify job opportunities.

• Time-Unlimited Support: Ongoing support is provided to both the employee and the employer for as long as needed.

• Client Preferences: Services are tailored to the individual's preferences, strengths, and experiences.

• Benefits Counseling: Participants receive counseling on how employment may affect their benefits.

Implementation

IPS Supported Employment is implemented by trained employment specialists who work as part of a multidisciplinary team. These specialists engage with clients to understand their employment goals, provide job search assistance, and offer support once employment is obtained.

Outcomes

Research has shown that IPS Supported Employment is effective in helping individuals with serious mental illness achieve competitive employment. Participants in IPS programs are more likely to obtain jobs, work more hours, and earn higher wages compared to those in traditional vocational rehabilitation programs.

Challenges

Despite its effectiveness, IPS Supported Employment faces challenges such as funding limitations, stigma associated with mental illness, and the need for ongoing training and support for employment specialists.

Related pages

• Supported Employment
• Vocational Rehabilitation
• Mental Health
• Disability Employment Services