Employment Counselling

The Road Back to Mental Health…

Experts increasingly acknowledge that work is a key factor in supporting mental wellness and warding off its reverse -- mental illness. Employment provides five factors that promote mental well-being:

Time structure

Social contact and affiliation

Collective effort and purpose

Social and personal identity

Regular activity

So for those who have suffered from such illnesses, meaningful employment is an essential part of the recovery process.

Employment Services involve:

• Job search

• Career exploration

• Resume / cover letter development

• Mock Interviews to improve skills

• Assistance with the hidden job market

• Job Development – Networking with potential employers

• Job blitzes; supporting clients during ‘in-person’ and ‘cold call’ applications

• Connect clients to education and training programs

• Advocacy with employers when necessary

Program Objectives:

*Client Focus:

• Establish a client-centered flexible service that addresses the needs of young, job ready individuals recovering from Psychosis

• Increase the competitive employability of this population

• Reduce dependence on government support payments

• Encourage and motivate self-sufficiency, productivity and independence

• Achieve realistic vocational objectives

• Enhance ability to maintain employment

*Employer Focus / Incentive:

• Provide training, work supports and incentives such as job coaching and work trials. Placements geared to slow and gradual integration, permitting the client to become skilled while not impeding on the organization’s productivity expectations

• Simplify and facilitate placement opportunities

• Address discrimination and reduce the perceived risk in employing PEPP clients

• Reinforce the community benefits of a diversified work force