The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) established a pilot program, Integrating Employment in Recovery, to provide training to substance use treatment facilities on incorporating evidence-based employment services into recovery programs. Through the program, DOR provides vocational rehabilitation employment services co-located in targeted treatment centers throughout the state to serve diverse communities as an integral part of behavioral health treatment.
In FY 2022-2023, four treatment centers were selected to serve in the pilot, based on their abilities to serve diverse populations and offer a variety of services. Individuals in treatment received vocational programming from peer specialists on topics such as career exploration, resume development, interviewing techniques, and self-advocacy.
Studies show that individuals who are employed are more likely to feel integrated into their communities after treatment, and less likely to relapse. Employment provides many benefits for individuals in treatment for substance use disorders, including stable income, positive social connections, and a sense of self-sufficiency. Historically, however, employment and career training has been a secondary focus in substance use treatment programs.
This project receives funding from Opioid Settlement Funds (OSF) through California’s Opioid Settlements.