Employment intervention strategies for individuals with brain injury

A supported employment, case management and independent living program for survivors of brain injuries is described. The relationship between this program and the university occupational therapy academic department in which it is housed is discussed. Recent work reentry and supported employment project descriptions and outcome studies in the literature are reviewed to show types of services provided, as well as the results of such programs nationwide. A thorough definition of the supported employment model for brain injury survivors is provided. Seven unique support and intervention strategies: defining goals; providing reality checks; building a team; approaching intervention holistically; educating support systems; discussing social behavior; and assuring long-term follow-along support are described. Early program evaluation results are discussed, along with current research activities. The article concludes with a discussion of the need for longer-term, cost-efficient community-based therapies and supports for brain injury survivors.