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Mental Health Employment Program

Who this program is for

Youth and adults age 15 and over living with a persistent mental illness, that are ready to pursue competitive employment, who have a Case Manager at an Employment Resource Centre, are seeking support voluntarily and would like to work cooperatively with a employment worker to find work.

Program Objective

To support individuals to prepare for, obtain and maintain meaningful employment.

Program Description

The MHEP Goals:

Provide the skills and supports necessary to access competitive employment opportunities. Focus on and use a strengths based approach to supporting clients during their job search. Facilitate a holistic client driven community based and collaborative approach that promotes self-sufficiency. Raise awareness of discrimination and stigma that people with mental health issues face in the workplace.

Our Services Include:

• Career Planning
  career exploration, occupational research, goal setting, skills and strengths inventory, return to work action plan
  
  
• Job Search
  identifying desired jobs, resume, on-line job search, cold calling
  
  
• Personal Management Skills
  interview preparation, self management, on the job skills
  
  
• Employment Maintenance
  identifying supports needed, job coaching, on-the-job support, follow up

"The influence of employment on the recovery process can not be overstated…Employment provides income, structure, social contact, productivity and meaning through a recognizable societal role… It breaks the cycle of poverty and dependence and leads to increased personal satisfaction and self-esteem." (Carling, 1995; New Zealand Mental Health Commission, 1997; Mueser, Drake & Bond, 1997)

Program Location

#108, 6840 King George Highway
Surrey, B.C. V3W 4Z9

Program Funding

The Government of Canada has contributed funding to this project.

Referrals or Prerequisites

Referrals are to made by a Case Manager through an Employment Resource Centre. Referral/inquiries can be directed to OPTIONS: Services to Communities Society, by phone: 604-596-4321 or e-mail: info@options.bc.ca

Contact Information

Sukie Thindal
Program Manager
Phone: 604-596-5750
Fax: 604-596-5799
Email: info@options.bc.ca
Website: www.options.bc.ca

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