Development of a Career Intervention for Women in a Transitional Housing Program

ABSTRACT This exploratory case study investigated the lived experiences of group facilitators and group participants who engaged in a pilot career intervention grounded in Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) and the Psychology of Working Theory (PWT). The purpose of the study was to explore the experiences of residents in a transitional housing program who participated in the intervention and facilitators who developed and led the intervention. Data in this project included a focus group with program participants, individual interviews with program facilitators, and weekly facilitator reflections. Participants shared how the intervention personally affected them as well as overall outcomes of the intervention. Using thematic analysis, five themes were identified: relational connections , barriers and supports related to career outcomes , volition , self‐awareness , and program facilitation and planning . The results highlight important implications for practice, advocacy, and research to further address the barriers and strengths of individuals living in transitional housing programs and provide recommendations for future career intervention work.