Integrated Employment in Alabama 


1. Program Definition and Services 

Integrated employment in Alabama refers to competitive integrated employment (CIE) for individuals with disabilities, including those with serious mental illness and developmental disabilities. It encompasses: 

  • Individual Placement and Support (IPS) for people with serious mental illness 
  • Supported employment services for individuals with developmental disabilities 
  • Customized employment opportunities 
  • Services provided include job exploration, placement assistance, ongoing support, and career advancement opportunities 

 

2. Regulations 

  • Integrated employment in Alabama is governed by: 
  • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) 
  • Alabama Department of Mental Health regulations 
  • Alabama Administrative Code for developmental disabilities services 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

While specific licensing requirements are not mentioned, providers must meet certain standards and qualifications to offer integrated employment services. 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

  • Multiple agencies are involved in integrated employment services: 
  • Alabama Department of Mental Health 
  • Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services 
  • Division of Developmental Disabilities 

 

5. Application Process 

The application process for becoming a provider is not explicitly detailed. However, providers likely need to contract with the Alabama Department of Mental Health and adhere to their policies and procedures 

 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers must have written policies and procedures that promote: 

  • Strength-based approaches 
  • Person-centered planning 
  • Protection of individual rights 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

Specific timelines for approval are not provided. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no explicit mention of a pre-application process. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not specifically mentioned as pre-application, ongoing training, and technical assistance are provided to expand employment services.

 

10. Additional Notes 

Alabama has an Employment First initiative to promote the full inclusion of people with significant disabilities in the workplace 

Benefits counseling is available to address concerns about losing benefits when transitioning to integrated employment 

The state aims to transition individuals from sheltered workshops to integrated employment settings 

Collaboration between various state agencies and organizations is emphasized to improve employment outcomes 

 

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