For many people, employment is an important source of dignity, purpose and identity.  For individuals with psychiatric disability, competitive employment can be a step toward recovery and/or wellness. 

Unfortunately, only a small number of individuals with disabilities are able to find satisfying work.

Supported Employment is a well-defined approach to helping people with mental illnesses find and keep competitive employment within their communities.

 Le'Chris contracts with Vocation Rehabilitation to provide supported employment in our Greenville, NC office through The Pirates House.

Supported Employment programs are staffed by employment specialists who have frequent meetings with treatment providers to integrate supported employment with mental health services.  The specialists also provide the following services:

• Educate the public and employers about the abilities of the individuals we serve and seek to assist employers with overcoming the misconceptions they may have about hiring an individual with mental illness.

• Provide pre-employment counseling to those trying to enter the work force:  proper attire, social skills for on-the-job situations, filling out applications, interviewing skills, etc.

• Developing employment opportunities within the client's home community.

• Matching an individual and an employment opportunity based on the client's preferences.

• Providing on-the-job coaching in how to perform a particular job.

 

For more information on the Supported Employment program, please contact Alina Carlone at 252-413-0587.