Employment is a key goal for many individuals with mental health conditions. However, their participation in the workforce remains low. The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Model of Supported Employment (SE) was developed to address this low workforce participation. A key consideration in employment pursuits is education. Supported Education (SEd) is a promising practice that helps individuals who are pursuing post-secondary education or training successfully complete their studies. SEd and SE can be used in combination to enhance career development. Research has found that SE improves competitive employment, hours worked, and monthly earnings, as well as non-vocational outcomes. SEd improves school self-efficacy, educational status, grade point average, and completion of credits. Despite this, very few individuals participating in behavioral health services have access to these career services.

The Northeast and Caribbean MHTTC in the Rutgers Department of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Counseling Professions believes employment is a critical element of recovery from serious mental illnesses. It aligns with the values of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and the belief that recovery is possible. The Northeast and Caribbean MHTTC has expertise in SE and SEd with faculty publishing extensively, receiving federal research grants, and leading a technical assistance center on these topics.