Individual Placement And Support

Another component of Dismas House’s reentry programs is IPS, Individual Placement and Support. IPS is an approach to supported employment for people with serious mental illness and is an evidence-based program which has shown increased employment among this group when concentration is placed on helping supports awareness for participants.

IPS operates a person-centered approach by solely focusing on helping clients to focus on their job or career preference, strengths, and work experiences, not on a pool of jobs that are readily available. Studies have shown that this person-centered approach works when based on the individuals’ interests.

IPS specialists build relationships with employers to learn about the employers’ needs to identify qualified job candidates. IPS employment specialists provide support for as long as needed and desired, without arbitrary time limits. Job supports are individualized based on the needs of the person and what will promote a positive work experience. IPS employment specialists help people with job changes and career advancement, including additional schooling and training.

Follow these links for information on IPS.

https://www.tn.gov/behavioral-health/mental-health-services/ips-supported-employment/learn-more.html

https://ipsworks.org/index.php/what-is-ips/

The project is funded under a Grant Contract with the State of Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.