The employment support program will helps individuals get the support they need to stay competitive in today’s job market.
Employment Planning
Experience tells us that employment promotes recovery and wellness. Individuals who work are healthier, have improved self-esteem and higher standards of living. For people recovering from a mental illness or addiction, the stigma of an illness poses barriers to employment. By focusing on individual strengths and interests, participants in the Employment Services program can discuss mental illness openly with the employment support team to help build a successful plan.
Our individualized employment services include, but are not limited to:
- Goal setting
- Resume building
- Career counselling and exploration
- Job interviews and placement practice
- Ongoing support for a smooth transition into a new job
- Mentoring to manage challenges in the workplace
- Job readiness and job-specific skills training
- Job maintenance support for people at risk of losing their job due to mental illness
We help connect individuals to:
- A network of employers
- Specialists in mental health and addiction services
- Countless well-being services
Our services are not dependent on disclosure of mental illness. Disclosure is up to you. While disclosing your health status to an employer can make it easier for them to accommodate your health needs, many clients never disclose that they are recovering from a mental illness.
Job Development
The Employment Services program provides one-to-one job searches based on clients’ interests, goals, previous work experience and education. Employment Support Workers connect with potential employers to discuss clients’ suitability for employment opportunities and advocate for accommodations when necessary.
Who benefits from Employment Services?
- Individuals 16 years of age and older and experiencing mental health challenges
- Individuals ready and motivated to enter the workforce
- Residents seeking employment in York Region and South Simcoe
Where are employment services offered?
Services are offered at the CMHA York Region and South Simcoe offices, in the community and in the workplace.
Career Café
Join staff from CMHA York and South Simcoe at the Career Café drop-in and receive help with job searches, web site information, career assessments, resume, cover letter and interview help, along with many other pre-employment skills.
With coaching from Employment Services staff, you can role-play scenarios for cold calling and learn how to email your resume. You will also have use of the computer and phone for your employment needs.
Referrals can also be made to join the Employment Services program to receive ongoing one-on-one supports.
Offered in: Alliston, Aurora, Markham and Vaughan
Applying for Employment Services
For more information or to make a referral (self-referrals are welcome), please call 905-841-3977 or 1-866-345-0183 ext. 3321 (Central Intake Team).
How do I join?
Tell us about yourself.
Or for more info, please call Central Intake at 1-866-345-0183, ext. 3321