What characterizes Individual Placement and Support (IPS)?

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is characterized by its focus on recovery-oriented supported employment. This approach integrates employment services with mental health treatment to assist individuals with mental health conditions in obtaining and maintaining competitive employment. IPS emphasizes that work is a critical part of recovery and enhances individuals' chances of achieving personal goals related to their mental health and overall quality of life.

Unlike traditional job placement services, IPS is designed to support individuals in finding jobs that are aligned with their skills and interests right from the outset, rather than focusing heavily on pre-employment training. This immediate engagement in the workforce is a key element of the IPS model. Furthermore, while it may assist individuals temporarily, the primary aim is not just to provide temporary job assistance but to facilitate long-term, meaningful job placements that support continuous recovery.