Process and outcome analysis of a supported employment program for people with psychiatric disabilities

Objective: This study examined the impact of an Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program enhanced with Motivational Interviewing (MI) on process and outcome variables. This combined program assisted individuals with psychiatric disabilities in weighing the pros and cons of work, locating employment based on personal choice, and maintaining competitive jobs through unlimited support. Methods: 125 individuals completed employment process and outcome measures at baseline and six-month follow-up. McNemar, paired samples t-test, correlation, and simultaneous regression were utilized to analyze the data set. Results: From baseline to six-month follow-up, program participants significantly increased the number of obtained jobs, hours worked per week, hourly wage, and monthly job income. Job interviews and offers were found to be positively correlated with the combination of job leads from employment specialists (ES) and clients telephoning employers. Participants' stage of change was found to be positively correlated with jobs offered, jobs obtained, and hourly wage. Conclusions: Results indicated that this supported employment program had a positive impact on employment variables and individuals' stages of change were related to these outcomes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract)