ACBHD Vocational Services Division
The Division includes units dedicated to Supported Employment Training and Technical Assistance, CalWORKs Mental Health, Administrative Support, and Alameda County Vocational Program Direct Service.
About the Alameda County Vocational Program
The Alameda County Vocational Program (ACVP) is a county-operated program dedicated to helping mental health peers turn their recovery into long-term employment success. We believe meaningful work fosters purpose, confidence, and independence and is a key social determinant of health. Using the evidence-based Individual Placement and Support (IPS) supported employment model, ACVP focuses on people’s strengths and preferences to help them succeed in competitive, mainstream employment.
The Alameda County Behavioral Health Department network also includes several other Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that provide the same high-quality IPS services. Whether it is ACVP or a CBO IPS service provider, every program adheres to the following core IPS principles to ensure people receive personalized, rapid, and continuous support on their journey to employment:
1. Focus on Competitive Employment
The primary goal is to help program participants find regular jobs in the community that pay at least minimum wage and are open to anyone. We do not focus on pre-employment readiness or non-industry recognized certificate programs, sheltered workshops, or “volunteer” placements; we help program participants build a real career alongside the general workforce.
2. Eligibility Based on Program participant Choice (Zero Exclusion)
Every program participant who meets ACBHD specialty mental health service criteria (see below) and expresses a desire to work is eligible. We do not exclude anyone based on their diagnosis, symptoms, substance use history, justice system involvement, level of disability, or “employment readiness.” If a program participant wants to work, we are here to help.
3. Integration of Employment and Mental Health Services
Employment is treated as a core part of someone’s mental health recovery, not a separate service. Our ACVP Employment Specialists work directly with a program participant’s mental health treatment team (doctors, clinicians, case managers, peer specialists) to ensure their employment goals and health needs are fully aligned.
4. Attention to Worker Preferences
The job search is driven by the program participant. We focus on the person’s unique interests, strengths, and career goals. Program participant preferences guide every step of the process to make a job match aligned with their skill and ability.
5. Personalized Benefits Counseling
ACVP and The Center for Independent Living (CIL) Specialized Benefits Counselors provide clear and accurate information on how working will affect Social Security, Medicaid, or other government entitlements. Our goal is to help program participants make informed decisions and feel financially secure as they transition into and advance within the workforce.
Click here for our Benefits FAQ
6. Rapid Job Search
ACVP believes in a “work is the best experience” philosophy. Rather than spending months on assessments, pre-employment training, or non-industry-standard certificate programs, we start looking for actual competitive jobs within the first 30 days of people joining the program.
7. Systematic Job Development
ACVP Employment Specialists spend significant time in the community, building relationships with employers based on a program participant’s specific job interests. Employment Specialists advocate for people and find opportunities that match their skills and preferences.
8. Time-Unlimited and Individualized Support
Support doesn’t end once someone gets the job. ACVP Employment Specialists provide personalized coaching and assistance for as reasonably long as a program participant wants and needs it. Whether it’s for a few months or a year, we are committed to helping people succeed and grow in their career.
Are you someone ready to take the next step?
We’re here to support you on your journey toward meaningful employment and greater independence.
You may qualify for IPS services if you:
- Are an Alameda County resident,
- Have active Medi-Cal health insurance,
- Have a mental health diagnosis,
- Have significant job-related struggles, and
- Are motivated to work, or attend school/training (with a vocational end goal)
If you think you meet these criteria and feel ready to explore the possibility of employment or education, we encourage you to give us a call at (510) 777-4240 for more information. Whether it is ACVP or one of our CBO IPS providers, we’ll make sure you get connected to supported employment services.
Still feeling unsure?
Check this video out on Alameda County’s IPS Services:
Hear Josh’s Back-to-Work Testimonial:
Here are some frequently asked questions and concerns lots of people have, that might help you make your decision:
I am afraid I’ll lose my benefits!
We understand that your benefits are a vital safety net. Our program includes Benefits Planning, where we look at your specific situation (SSI, SSDI, Medi-Cal, Housing & Food subsidies, etc.) to show you exactly how work affects your cash-aid and subsidies. Our goal is to ensure your total income (wages + remaining benefits) is higher than what you receive from benefits alone. You don’t have to guess or take a leap of faith. We will help you run the numbers so you can make an informed decision with peace of mind.
Where will my Employment Specialist meet me?
We meet you where you are most comfortable. One of the key parts of the ACVP IPS program is that we don’t expect you to always come to a clinical office. We want to see you in the community where real life happens.
Common meeting spots include:
- Local Coffee Shops or Cafes – A relaxed, neutral environment to chat over a drink.
- Public Libraries – Great for a quiet space to work on resumes or applications.
- American Job Centers – Where we can access computers and job-seeking resources together.
- In the Neighborhood – We can meet at a park or a convenient community center.
- At Your Workplace – Once you are hired, we can meet you on-site (if you choose to disclose) or nearby for a quick check-in during your break.
- The Choice is Yours – We prioritize your privacy and convenience. You tell us where you feel most at ease, and we’ll make it happen.
What kind of work could be a good fit for me through this program?
The possibilities are as diverse as you are. We don’t just place people in jobs; we work with you to explore what truly interests you and what you’re good at. Whether you’re thinking about entry-level positions to get started, have specific skills for a more specialized role, or are curious about trying something completely new, we’re here to help you discover those options. Our goal is to find work that feels like a good fit for your unique strengths and goals, leading to a more fulfilling and sustainable career.
What if I don’t have a lot of work experience?
That’s completely understandable, and it’s not a barrier at all! Many people we work with are just starting their careers or looking to try something new. Our Employment Specialists are skilled at identifying opportunities that match your current skill set and potential, regardless of your previous work history. We’ll work with you to highlight your transferable skills and connect you with employers who value potential and are willing to provide training. Everyone starts somewhere, and we’re here to support your journey.
I’m afraid of being judged or treated differently because of my mental health history.
Stigma is real, but it doesn’t have to define your career. You have full control over your disclosure. Together, we can decide if, when, and how to share information with an employer. Many of our clients find that work helps reduce stigma by providing a new identity as a coworker, a professional, and a contributor to the community.
What if I need extra support after I get a job?
We’re committed to your long-term success. We offer job-coaching and follow-along support
tailored to your individual needs to help you adjust to your new role and ensure you feel confident and supported as you thrive in your employment. This might include regular check-ins, problem-solving support, help with communication, on-the-job support, and reasonable work accommodations.
What if I start a job and my symptoms flare up?
We believe that you don’t have to be “symptom-free” to be a great employee. In fact, for many people, the routine, social connection, and sense of accomplishment that comes from a job are powerful tools for recovery. You don’t have to be perfect to start; you just have to be willing to try. IPS is unique because the support doesn’t stop once you’re hired. We offer follow-along support for as long as you need it. Whether it’s helping you request a simple workplace accommodation, time off to focus on your wellness, or just having someone to talk to after a tough shift, we are in your corner.
What if I start a job and realize I don’t like it?
That’s okay! In fact, it’s a normal part of finding the right career path. One of the best things about the IPS model is that we focus on your preferences. If you find that a job isn’t a good fit—whether it’s the tasks, the environment, or the schedule—we don’t start over from scratch.
Instead, we’ll sit down together, talk about what didn’t work, and use those lessons to refine our search for the next opportunity. Our goal is to help you find a role that truly clicks with your interests, and we’ll stick by you through as many tries as it takes to get there. There is no “failing” here—only moving closer to the right fit.
Who We Are
