Occupational therapists’ perspectives of the individual placement and support (IPS) approach in mental health services in Ireland

Purpose This paper aims to explore the perspectives of occupational therapists working in Irish mental health services on the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) service and its relationship with occupational therapy. IPS, introduced in Ireland in 2015 as an evidence-based approach to vocational rehabilitation, has consistently demonstrated superior employment outcomes for people with mental illness compared to traditional “train, then place” models. While IPS aligns closely with occupational therapy values and theory, the perspectives of occupational therapists on its implementation and inter-relationship with their profession have not been previously examined. Design/methodology/approach Six occupational therapists with experience of IPS were recruited through the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in early 2024, and reflexive thematic analysis identified three key themes. Findings The themes identified were characteristics of IPS, facilitation of IPS and interplay between Occupational Therapy and IPS. Therapists appreciated the structured, evidence-based approach of IPS and its benefits for service users. Although overlap exists between the occupational therapy role and that of the IPS employment specialist – given the shared value placed on work as a meaningful occupation – therapists highlighted the distinctive, specialist skills of employment specialists. These skills were seen as complementary to occupational therapy, addressing a key need in mental health services. Originality/value This study provides new insight into how occupational therapists view the relationship between IPS and their own role. It highlights how the two professions can work collaboratively, offering guidance on supporting employment specialists within multidisciplinary mental health teams.