How Higher Performing Employment Specialists Support Job-seekers with Psychiatric Disabilities Retain Employment

摘要

In this qualitative study seventy six Australian employment specialists who predominantly work with individuals with psychiatric disabilities were classified as either higher or lower performers based on their job-seekers' employment outcomes. Key differentiating practices and attitudes relevant to job retention were identified between higher and lower performers when assisting individuals with psychiatric disabilities. The practices and attitudes of high performers, in contrast to those of lower performers, can potentially inform future training of occupational therapists and others performing the role of employment specialists. Investigations of measurement reliability and predictive validity are now needed to quantify the extent that these specific job retention practices translate into better employment outcomes for job seekers with psychiatric disabilities. These findings add to our understanding of expertise in performing the role of employment specialist and why this role is critical for the successful vocational rehabilitation of people with psychiatric disabilities.