Individual Placement and Support (IPS)
Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is a proven supported employment model that helps people with mental health and substance use disorders find and keep jobs of their choosing. The IPS model is based on the philosophy that employment is treatment and leads to improved recovery outcomes. When working, people with mental health and substance use disorders feel better about themselves and their job role improves their self-esteem and life satisfaction. Through a continuum of support, IPS is more effective than other vocational approaches in helping job seekers find long-term competitive employment.
The eight principles of IPS
Competitive employment
The IPS model focuses on developing opportunities for job seekers that are inclusive. These are jobs that anyone can apply for, pay at least minimum wage or the same pay as coworkers with similar duties, and have no artificial times limits imposed by a social service agency.
Systematic job development
Based on the job seeker's preferences, IPS employment specialists regularly visit businesses to learn about their needs and hiring preferences.
Rapid job search
In the IPS model, there are no requirements for assessments, training, or counseling before seeking employment. The first face-to-face contact between a job seeker and a business occurs within 30 days.
Integrated services
The IPS model is part of mental health and substance use treatment programs. Employment specialists work with a job seeker's treatment team to support the job seeker's treatment goals.
Benefits planning
IPS employment specialists help people obtain personalized, understandable, and accurate information about their Social Security, Medicaid, and other government benefits.
Zero exclusion
The IPS model is open to all job seekers receiving services for mental health and substance use disorders
Time-unlimited supports
The services offered under the IPS model continue as long as each person being served wants and needs support.
Worker preferences
The IPS model focuses on each job seeker's desires and wishes.
Everybody wins with IPS
People hired through IPS gain access to meaningful employment. Meanwhile, businesses gain productive and qualified employees, a more diverse workforce, and the support of vocational services. The community gains more residents who are confident, contributing members of society. Learn why IPS is a win-win for everyone.
Find an IPS site
IPS currently is available in 20 counties. See the list of sites.
Bring IPS to your community
IPS is expanding across Wisconsin. The state IPS team makes implementing the IPS model easy. They guide Tribal nations and counties through every step of the process.
- Get started with IPS
- Ask a question about IPS by sending email to dhsdctsips@dhs.wisconsin.gov.
Wisconsin IPS is a collaboration of the Department of Health Services, the Department of Workforce Development, and UW-Madison.