CalWORKs Mental Health Supportive Services Program is an outpatient program that provides both a comprehensive and integrated array of Mental Health Services, Targeted Case Management Services, Medication Support Services, and Crisis Intervention Services to adults who experience mental health barriers to employment. The program maintains a family focus, where its mission is based upon the psychosocial rehabilitation model, in which principles related to wellness, recovery, empowerment, client/family involvement, and choice are emphasized.
Services are targeted to help each client achieve an optimal level of functioning, with a focus on self-reliance and a successful transition into stable employment. Specific goals include:
- building and/or preserving coping skills/activities of daily living skills;
- linkage to supports within the Center and linkage to adjunctive services in the community addressing employment;
- medical/dental care;
- housing;
- education;
- recreation;
- legal/financial issues;
- and, access to self-help groups
Referrals for services are received through the Department of Social Services (DPSS) and GAIN Social Workers contracted by DPSS. Program staff also provide community outreach at local DPSS offices to link clients to services who face multiple barriers in accessing treatment.
Services are provided by a multi-disciplinary/multi-lingual team consisting of case managers, licensed and license-waivered, and psychiatric consultant staff. Linguistic assistance is also provided by other Center personnel, the AT&T Language Line, and ACCESS services provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH). The project’s linkage and partnership with both the Center’s Children and Adolescent Division and Adult Services Division providers remains critical in ensuring that a seamless linkage to services and continuity of care is maximized for clients and their families.
Treatment staff works closely and collaboratively with each client in order to identify strengths and assess barriers to obtaining and sustaining employment. Treatment planning and services are directed toward addressing each client’s current level of functioning, cultural/ethnic/racial background, and any physical and/or cognitive impairment in order to minimize or eliminate any barriers to accessing services. Given the client’s consent, family involvement is encouraged and supported from the time of admission and throughout the treatment process. The facility is accessible to clients with mobility problems. Staff can also provide field-based services.
Services result in symptom reduction, skills building, and a successful transition to competitive employment. Throughout the treatment process, progress regarding identified treatment goals and client satisfaction is reviewed.
Lastly, staff works closely with DPSS and Community Care Resource Center (CCRC) personnel in order to ensure that all adjunctive services such as employment preparation, work adjustment, job coaching and job placement activities, child care, and transportation remain intact during treatment.
