​Supported Employment

Supported Employment is a model of employment that provides individuals with disabilities or mental health conditions with the necessary support to obtain and maintain competitive employment in the community. The approach is based on the principle of individualization, which means that services and support are tailored to the specific needs and strengths of the individual. This can include job coaching, vocational rehabilitation, career counseling, and other forms of assistance that are necessary to help the individual succeed in the workplace.

Supported Employment programs emphasize the importance of integrating individuals with disabilities into the workforce, as well as providing ongoing support to ensure their continued success. The goal of Supported Employment is to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence, financial stability, and self-esteem through meaningful work.

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is a specific model of Supported Employment that emphasizes rapid job placement and ongoing support in the community for individuals with mental health conditions. The IPS model is based on the principles of evidence-based practice and emphasizes the individual's choice, preferences, and strengths in the job search and retention process.

In IPS, the employment specialist works closely with the individual to identify their job interests, skills, and goals, and then provides customized job search assistance, such as resume writing, interviewing skills training, and networking support. Once a job is secured, the employment specialist continues to provide ongoing support to the individual in the workplace, such as coaching, job accommodation, and advocacy.

IPS has been shown to be highly effective in helping individuals with mental health conditions obtain and maintain competitive employment. Research has demonstrated that IPS leads to higher rates of employment, longer job tenure, and higher earnings compared to traditional vocational rehabilitation services.

Contact

Beth Wilson, Supported Employment Specialist
3601 C Street, Ste. 934
Anchorage AK 99503
Phone: 907-269-3740
Fax: 907-269-3786
Email: beth.wilson@alaska.gov

Resources

The Alaska Mental Health Trust Beneficiary Employment & Engagement