P&P October 2016

and have limited social supports. There are, however, a number of evidence- based models and best practices that are successful in helping this group succeed in the workforce. We must utilize evidence-based practices to identify and address behavioral health issues and assist individuals with mental health conditions to attain and retain meaningful employment. The first step to addressing these employment barriers is identifica- tion. Regardless of the “door” through which a human service customer enters, initial client assessment should include screening for mental health and substance use problems. There are a number of screening tools that nonclinical front-line human service workers can use to identify individuals who may be experiencing behavioral health issues. A list of screening tools and resources can be found on the SAMHSA–HRSA Center for Integrated Health Solutions website. For a decade, New York City’s Human Resources Administration (HRA) has been using the WeCARE model (Wellness, Comprehensive Assessment, Rehabilitation, and Employment) to assess and address the needs of cash assistance recipients with clinical barriers to employment. The WeCARE model begins with a biopsychosocial assessment, 11 and provides comprehensive services, The SEmodel has been themost extensively studiedmodel of vocational rehabilitation for peoplewithmental illness. It has been found to produce better employment outcomes than comparison programs, such as transitional employment.

Practice Principles of Supported Employment

■ Eligibility is based on consumer choice. ■ SE services are integrated with com- prehensive mental health treatment. ■„ Competitive employment is the goal. ■ Personalized benefits counseling is important. ■ Job search starts soon after con- sumers express interest in working. ■ Follow-along supports are continuous. ■ Consumer preferences are important.

is capable of competitive employ- ment if the right kind of job and work environment can be found. Therefore, the main goal of SE is not to change consumers, but to find a natural “fit” between their strengths and experi- ences and jobs in the community. 13 The SE model has been the most extensively studied model of voca- tional rehabilitation for people with mental illness. It has been found to produce better employment outcomes than comparison programs, such as transitional employment. Consumers in SE programs are more successful in obtaining competitive work, working more hours, and earning higher wages. 14 For those interested in learning more about SE and how to build and implement SE programs, SAMHSA offers a free Supported Employment Evidence-Based Practices toolkit on its website. A great example of a model SE program is the Community Support Program offered by the Family & Children’s Center (FCC), a nonprofit organization in Wisconsin. FCC’s Community Support Program (CSP) provides comprehensive mental health, substance abuse, and case manage- ment services to adults diagnosed with

including individualized service plans, referrals, case management, vocational rehabilitation, and job development. The WeCARE model has been successful in assisting many participants in stabilizing their mental health conditions and achieving self-sufficiency through transition to employment. More information about WeCARE is available on HRA’s website and the Office of Family Assistance’s peer technical assistance website. Even when their mental health needs are being appropriately addressed, traditional employment and vocational rehabilitation services are inadequate for some individuals with mental health conditions, as they are typically time-limited. Due to the chronic and episodic nature of most mental health conditions, individuals may require ongoing or intermittent supports to remain attached to the workforce. 12 Supported Employment (SE) is the strongest evidence-based vocational rehabilitation model for individuals with mental health conditions. The approach emphasizes helping these individuals obtain competitive work in the community and providing the supports necessary to ensure their success in the workplace. The principal philosophy of SE is the belief that every person with a mental health condition

See Jobseekers on page 39

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October 2016 Policy&Practice