There are ample research studies that demonstrate the positive effects of employment in an individual’s recovery. You are the front door to help individuals learn about these benefits and connect them to other service providers who specialize in employment services. You do not need to become an employment “expert.”

Three key areas of support will help make the difference to those interested in pursuing employment:

1. Demonstrating your sense of hope and belief in the individual’s ability to work is one of the most critical components in assisting individuals to eventually become employed.
2. Connecting individuals to internal or external employment resources such as the Medicaid Demonstration Project, the King County’s Behavioral Health Supported Employment Programs, the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and local WorkSource centers.
3. Continuing to support individuals as they seek, gain and retain employment by routinely communicating with the employment service provider to help identify and address barriers, needs and supports that will help them in their employment journey.

It starts with YOU!

The most important message you can provide is: Ultimately you will make more money if you work than if you do not.

Even though a portion of financial benefits may decrease due to employment income, individuals will receive more income because they are working. It is important that individuals get support for their work choices (hours, wages, etc.) by a qualified benefits counselor before starting their job search and any time their financial status changes (recently hired, a raise, or promotion). It is also vitally important that individuals report any earnings from work to the Social Security Administration to prevent any overpayments and required “paybacks.” You can assist them to call Plan to Work at 1-866-49-9443 (plantowork.org) to get personalized benefits information. Anyone receiving supported employment services through these agencies should also be able to receive benefits counseling and support. Anyone receiving services through the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation is also eligible to receive personalized benefits counseling.

Refer ANYONE who is interested in getting back to work or going to work for the first time. Research has shown that clinicians have some human bias and have traditionally not been successful at determining who is/isn’t successful at becoming employed and maintaining employment. So regardless of any perceived “job readiness” conditions, refer EVERYONE who is interested and let them surprise you with their employment success!