Publication Date

Spring 2020

Degree Type

Master's Project

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Department

Public Administration

First Advisor

Frances Edwards

Keywords

Supportive Employment Services, Hospitalization Rates, Mental Health Clients, On-Site Job Coaching, Off-Site Job Coaching, San Mateo County, California

Abstract

The State of California’s Department of Rehabilitation has established a goal of reducing the rate of unemployment for people suffering from mental illness (Department of Rehabilitation, 2020). Sheltered workshops and short duration employment efforts have proven to be less effective than the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) or other supported employment models. Provided that they have the right support and strategies, those suffering from mental illness can maintain competitive employment and reduce their incidences of hospitalization, dependency, boredom, and lack of fulfillment. The alienation one suffers from lack of social connection and employment cannot be understated. Participants in supported employment programs keep their jobs for longer periods of time, and regain self-respect and a sense of self-worth that is lacking while unemployed (Bond, 2004; Cimera, 2008). Continued efforts focusing on job retention and decreased hospitalization stays, especially as it pertains to people with diagnosed mental illness, could benefit those afflicted, as well as society as a whole.

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