Helpfulness of the
Workplace Socialization Model (WPS) Project

Elizabeth R. Stone, MA, CASAC-T

I have been impacted by this project in a way that one might not traditionally think of, but it has been a significant way nonetheless. I sat with providers as the volunteer consumer representative at meetings. This was important for me in a number of ways.

Prior to being sidelined by my illness, I had worked in a professional capacity in human services. Emily, a staff member at a rehabilitation program I was attending, suggested that I serve as the consumer voice for the project. I happily consented. I was warmly welcomed from my very first meeting on. Jamie (Dr. Mitus who is the Principal Investigator) set the tone, really. She embraced not only my presence, but my ideas. I was treated as an equal member of the committee, with respect given to what I had to offer. This was crucial for me in regaining a sense of competence and value, and for seeing myself as a professional once again.

Committee members participated in ‘train-the-trainers’ sessions on the curriculum (Workplace Socialization) that Jamie was developing. Learning the content helped me enormously. There were many ideals I held to tightly about appropriate workplace culture that I was shocked to learn were erroneous. This gave me insight into why I had a history of difficulty in interpersonal relations on the job. Learning to teach the curriculum was really learning its lessons, lessons I needed to learn myself. Doing so in this context was very non-threatening because I did not have to admit my shortcomings.

For the initial meetings I participated in, Emily brought me with her. When I got my own transportation, I drove myself. This, too, contributed to a sense of freedom and independence.

The true beauty of my experience with the WPS project is that I am able to pass on the lessons I have learned. I currently work as a regional trainer for a state-wide organization that promotes the recovery, rehabilitation and rights of individuals with psychiatric disabilities. I provide technical assistance and consultation to programs that are licensed by the New York State Office of Mental Health to support their efforts in providing recovery-facilitating services.

A key to independence and community integration is competitive employment. Therefore, I routinely refer to Jamie’s materials and ask people to link with her for the supported employment components of their programs. In this way, I am spreading the messages to providers who can incorporate them into their work, and further disseminate the information to my peers who may be taking those initial forays into employment, and a life of greater satisfaction and meaning.

I attribute my success in my position, as well as the hope I pass along to others, directly to my experience as a volunteer consumer representative on the WPS project.