Significantly reduced costs for public support services (SSI/SSDI and Medicaid/Medicare) as workers become self-sufficient.
How is IPS different from other employment strategies?
The IPS approach makes getting the job the start of the process rather than the end point. Individuals receive support based on their individual job needs, abilities, and interests. Employment specialists may also provide support to employers in line with the individual’s wishes.
In IPS, as soon as participants say they want to go to work, an employment service provider works with them to identify their strengths, preferences, and abilities. The important thing is the person’s desire to work! No one is turned away because of past work history, illness history, substance use, symptoms, or other characteristics. Anyone with a mental illness who wants to work can use IPS. Whether the person wants part-time or full-time employment, the goal is a job that pays at least minimum wage and is competitive.
The other key ingredient to the IPS model is the integration of the employment services team with the person’s mental health support team. Mental health information is part of the employment plan, and employment goals are part of the mental health treatment plans.
What types of employment supports are provided?
The employment specialist makes sure that before starting a job, a job seeker gets help from a benefits specialist to understand the financial and healthcare benefits they are currently receiving.
Other supports may include help with the interview or preparing for the interview, whether or not to disclose information about the disability, meeting with the employer, and more. Job supports are provided as long as they are needed. The supports can be provided on the job or outside of the job. The level and type of supports can change or fade away as the person’s needs change.
IPS services availability continues to grow. However, a comprehensive list of providers is not available. To inquire about services in your area contact your local mental health provider. Also visit the Dartmouth website provided in References to learn more about IPS.
1 Bond, G.R., Drake, R.E., & Becker, D.R. (2008). An update on randomized controlled trials of evidence-based supported employment. Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal, 31, 280-290.