How the Individual Placement and Support model benefits people living with severe mental illness
At Guild, we know from years of experience that employment is a crucial component of recovery and well-being for individuals living with mental illness, and the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model is an effective, evidence-based approach that significantly increases the likelihood of obtaining and retaining employment.
Ben Batz works at Guild as an employment specialist, supporting people with severe mental illness and helping them to find, get and keep jobs. Every day, Ben uses the IPS model to support our clients and empower them to overcome the obstacles they may be facing due to mental illness.
Unfortunately, funding for IPS programs is in jeopardy, and potential cuts could drastically reduce access to these vital services. Here, Ben shares the story of Luke, a Guild client, whose experience exemplifies why funding for employment support services should be a priority this legislative session.
For eight months, Luke and I worked together to find the right job. It was a difficult process, but when he finally landed a position he was excited about, he showed up eager for his first day of work.
Then, the unexpected happened. The symptoms of his schizophrenia flared up. Overwhelmed and in a panic, Luke turned to alcohol the day after his first shift.
As soon as I learned what happened, I reached out to Luke’s mental health case manager, who acted quickly. Luke was admitted to hospital inpatient care that same day, where he received the treatment he needed. With the right support in place, Luke recovered quickly.
When Luke was ready to return home, I visited his employer to explain the situation. Instead of giving up on him, they welcomed him back. Since then, Luke has been working steadily as a delivery driver for an auto parts retailer.
Today, Luke continues to deliver parts and is enjoying the benefits of a stable income and consistent routine that gets him into the community. And after at first being nervous about how much he had to learn, he is now making plans to advance his career to work the parts counter to help customers and his coworkers in their busy store.
Luke’s story is proof that extra support during critical transitions — like starting a new job — can change lives. Having supported employment services designed especially for people with severe mental illness to coordinate with targeted case management made all the difference in Luke’s success. Reliable funding for these programs ensures that people with severe mental illness, and the mental health professionals who support them, aren’t left without the services they need to build stable, independent lives.
Consistency is key, and we can’t afford to let these supports disappear.
Supporting IPS programs not only empowers individuals living with mental illness but also strengthens our communities, and you can help us make a difference. Check out Guild’s advocacy toolkit for resources to help you spread the word about employment support services. You’ll also find information on how to connect with your representatives and encourage them to take action.
Photo of Ben Batz, Guild Employment Specialist