Supported Employment is based on eight principles.

• Eligibility is based on consumer choice. No one is excluded who wants to participate.
• Supported employment is Integrated with treatment. Employment specialists coordinate plans with your treatment team: your case manager, therapist, psychiatrist, etc.
• Competitive employment is the goal. The focus is on finding community jobs anyone can apply for that pay at least minimum wage, including part-time and full-time jobs.
• Job search starts soon after a consumer expresses interest in working. There are no requirements for completing extensive pre-employment assessment and training, or intermediate work experiences.
• Follow-along supports are continuous. Individualized supports to maintain employment continue as long as consumers want the assistance.
• Consumer preferences are important. Choice and decisions about work and support are individualized, based on the person’s preferences, strengths, and experiences.
• Employment specialists help clients obtain personalized, understandable, and accurate information about their Social Security, Medicaid, and other benefits.

Employment specialists build an employer network based on clients’ interests, developing relationships with local employers by making systematic contacts.

Supported Employment is an ongoing service.

Employment specialists are available to:

• Help you plan your career.
• Identify factors that could stand in your way and develop solutions.
• Help you succeed after you have obtained a job.

When you are hired, an employment specialist will continue to provide supports and services.