IPS History

Dartmouth’s Community Mental Health Program developed the IPS Supported Employment Center. Their research team developed the IPS approach to supported employment. This evidence-based practice focuses on employment for people with serious mental illness (SMI).

IPS is 3 times more effective at helping people with SMI obtain employment than any other type of vocational program. In the past, vocational services focused on the consumer obtaining a period of symptom stability and sobriety before pursuing employment goals. The IPS model promotes wellness and recovery, recognizing that employment and recovery go hand in hand.

Kentucky was the 12th state to adopt the IPS model, starting with just 4 Community Mental Health Centers in 2010. Wellspring joined the IPS project in November 2015. As of 2016 IPS programs may be found throughout Kentucky.