Meaningful Work Is Part of Recovery
The CalWORKs Phoenix Skills Program helps adults living with mental health and substance use challenges find and keep jobs, building economic independence as part of a bigger picture.
Employment That Meets You Where You Are
Work can be a powerful part of recovery. It brings structure, purpose, income, and a sense of belonging. But for people living with mental health challenges, the standard job search process often falls short.
Bonita House’s CalWORKs Phoenix Skills Program takes a different approach. Employment Specialists spend the majority of their time out in the community, working side by side with clients and meeting directly with employers. Services are individualized, recovery-oriented, and built around each person’s real goals and circumstances.
This program serves adults who participate in CalWORKs and face mental health or substance use barriers to employment and education. Self-enrollment is welcome. Participants do not need a provider or county referral to get started.
More than Job Placement
Every client receives individual therapy alongside employment support, because mental health and career readiness go hand in hand. Our Employment Specialists work directly with employers, and services extend to family members as well, recognizing that recovery and employment are rarely just an individual journey. Bonita House offers clients a wide variety of services as a part of its CalWORKs Phoenix Skills Program:
- Mental health and substance use counseling
- Help to identify strengths and work interests
- Guidance on the steps in the process that lead to a job interview
- Support to improve concentration, motivation, and self-esteem
- Information and access to community resources to support and maintain mental health
- Support for gaining or furthering education
- Help to attain your fullest potential: vocationally, socially, and emotionally
Supported Employment with IPS
Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is an evidence-based supported employment program that helps individuals with mental health conditions find and maintain competitive jobs of their choosing. IPS focuses on rapid job search, personalized employment services, and ongoing support tailored to each participant’s goals and preferences.
Services may include identifying strengths and career interests, resume development, interview preparation, job application assistance, benefits counseling, and on-the-job coaching. IPS operates under a zero-exclusion philosophy, ensuring that anyone who wants to work can access services regardless of diagnosis, symptoms, or other barriers. By integrating employment support with behavioral health services, IPS promotes recovery, independence, improved quality of life, and meaningful community participation.
Start Building Your Future Today
Ready to take the next step toward employment? Download our brochure and reach out to connect with an Employment Specialist.
