• Ongoing support services 

• Career development assistance 

• Benefits counseling 

• Self-advocacy education and training 

The goal is to help individuals achieve Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE), which involves real jobs in the general labor market with competitive wages. 

2. Regulations 

Supported Employment in Georgia is governed by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) and follows the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model. The program adheres to Georgia's Employment First Act, House Bill 831 (2018).  

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must obtain certification from the DBHDD to offer Supported Employment services. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is responsible for overseeing Supported Employment services 

5. Application Process 

The application process is conducted through the Georgia Department of Community Health. Providers must submit a completed application along with required documentation 

6. Required Documentation 

Required documents for the application include: 

• Completed New Provider Application Checklist 

• Application Invitation Letter 

• Service Location Addendum 

• Commercial General Liability and Business Auto Policies 

• Staffing Form(s) 

• Current Organizational Chart 

• Copies of Professional Licenses/Certificates 

• Current Resumes for professional staff 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The specific timeline for approval is not mentioned. However, the process involves multiple steps and can take several weeks to months. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

Providers must ensure they meet all state requirements before applying, including forming a business entity and ensuring compliance with state regulations. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not explicitly stated, providers must ensure their staff meet training requirements. Employment specialists offering customized supported employment must have advanced training and certification in Discovery 

10. Additional Notes 

• Supported Employment follows a zero-exclusion policy, meaning all interested clients have access to services regardless of job readiness factors 

• The Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) funds time-limited supported employment services, while DBHDD provides long-term supports 

• As of March 1, 2025, there are 23 Supported Employment providers throughout the state of Georgia 

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