Vocational Program

The Moose Jaw Branch is excited to offer a new Vocational program designed specifically to help those suffering with Mental Illness and or Addictions gain employment. Our Vocational Coordinator has been trained by the IPS Employment Centre.

This program is based on the Individual Placement and Support (IPS), which is a model of supported employment for people with serious mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia spectrum disorder, bipolar, depression). IPS supported employment helps people living with behavioral health conditions work at regular jobs of their choosing. Although variations of supported employment exist, IPS refers to the evidence-based practice of supported employment. Mainstream education and technical training are included as ways to advance career paths. IPS is based on 8 principles (https://ipsworks.org/index.php/what-is-ips/). 

COMPETITIVE EMPLOYMENT

Jobs anyone can apply for, pay at least minimum wage/same pay as coworkers with similar duties, and have no artificial time limits imposed by the social service agency.

SYSTEMATIC JOB DEVELOPMENT

Employment specialists systematically visit employers, who are selected based on the job seeker’s preferences, to learn about their business needs and hiring preferences.

RAPID JOB SEARCH

IPS programs use a rapid job search approach to help job seekers obtain jobs rather than assessments, training, & counselling.

INTEGRATED SERVICES

IPS programs are integrated with mental health treatment teams. 

BENEFITS PLANNING

Employment specialists help people obtain personalized, understandable, and accurate information about their Social Security, and other government entitlements.

 ZERO EXCLUSION

People are not excluded on the basis of readiness, diagnoses, symptoms, substance use history, psychiatric hospitalizations, homelessness, level of disability, or legal system involvement.

TIME-UNLIMITED SUPPORTS

Job supports are individualized and continue for as long as each worker wants and needs the support. Employment Specialist have face to face contact at least monthly.

WORKER PREFERENCES

IPS program services are based on each job seeker’s preferences and choices rather than the employment specialist’s and supervisor’s judgments.

Why Focus On Employment?

• Viewed by many as an essential part of recovery

• Most consumers want to work

• A typical role for adults in our society

• Cost-effective alternative to day treatment

Effects of Unemployment

• Increased substance abuse

• Increased psychiatric disorders

• Reduced self-esteem

• Alienation

Benefits of Employment

• Increased income

• Improved self-esteem

• Increased social and quality of life

• Better control of symptoms

• Reduced substance use

• Reduced hospitalization

For more information about any of the educational programs we offer, including dates, availability and fees, please contact us.