A randomized clinical trial of supported employment for inner-city patients with severe mental disorders.

Examined the effectiveness of 2 supported employment approaches for 152 unemployed, inner-city patients with severe mental disorders. Ss were randomly assigned to one of the following: (1) an individual placement and support (IPS) service, in which employment specialists at a mental health center help patients obtain competitive jobs and offer ongoing support, or (2) an enhanced vocational rehabilitation (EVR) service, in which vocational services are delivered by a rehabilitation agency. Ss were assessed with standardized measures of work, income, self-esteem, quality of life, symptoms, and hospitalization at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 mo follow-up evaluations. Employment status and job satisfaction were assessed every 2 mo. Results found that IPS Ss were significantly more likely to obtain competitive employment and work at least 20 hrs per wk, whereas EVR Ss had a higher rate of participation in sheltered employment. Overall, the IPS model proved to be more effective than than the EVR model. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)