About Our Vocational Program
The Charleston/Dorchester Mental Health Center adopted the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Model in 2002. IPS is an evidence-based practice that helps people with severe and persistent mental illness identify, acquire and maintain competitive employment in their communities. We work in collaboration with South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation to offer a multidisciplinary team approach to employment. There are seven core principles that make the evidence-based model different from other vocational programs:
- Zero Exclusion Policy
- Consumer Preferences are Important
- Rapid Job Search
- A Competitive Job is the Goal
- Employment is integrated with Mental Health Services
- Time-Unlimited Support
- Personalized Benefits Planning
Family Advocacy
IPS Supported Employment is strengthened by ongoing discussions with NAMI representatives and family members. We recognize that family members offer support and want to establish a partnership to educate and increase their knowledge in the recovery process.
Download Our Brochure: CLICK HERE
Our Partners
Dartmouth IPS Supported Employment Center
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~ips/index.html
South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department (SCVRD)
http://scvrd.net/common/index.php
Vocational Staff Contact #843-852-4100
Caitlin McGarty, LMSW
Program Supervisor
caitlin.mcgarty@scdmh.org
Steven Alter
Individual Placement & Support Specialist
steven.alter@scdmh.org
Recognitions
2003 Performance Improvement Team Recognition and Award (Third Place) $250.00
2005 Certificate of Recognition from Johnson and Johnson / Dartmouth for Implementation and practice in evidence based Supported Employment
2008 Achievement award from Johnson and Johnson/Dartmouth to IPS team Charleston MH team and SCVRD partners (10,000.00)
