What does Individual Placement and Support (IPS) focus on for individuals with mental illness?

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is an evidence-based model of supported employment specifically designed to help individuals with mental illness integrate into the workforce. The focus of IPS is on assisting individuals in finding jobs that match their unique strengths and capabilities, thereby promoting their independence and enhancing their quality of life.

IPS emphasizes the individual's preferences and abilities to ensure that employment opportunities align with their personal goals and skill sets. This approach not only supports the individual in obtaining a job but also encourages sustained employment, leading to better overall recovery outcomes. The model operates under the premise that work is an essential component of community life and mental health recovery, which is why maximizing individual strengths in job placements is paramount.

In contrast, while financial assistance, long-term therapy, and volunteer opportunities may be valuable components of comprehensive care, they do not specifically address the main aim of IPS, which is to secure competitive employment based on personal strengths and interests.