Types of employment

Clubhouse philosophy is founded on the belief that recovery from mental illness is greatly facilitated by purposeful work, including paid employment. The 30+ quality accredited Clubhouses in the Commonwealth honor the important bonds that members form while participating in the work of the Clubhouse and teach them to use the environment as a stepping stone towards employment goals in the greater community. This formula was constructed by the first program of its kind, Fountain House, in New York City in 1943 and is upheld by Clubhouse International today.

The Clubhouse Model facilitates three key forms of paid employment in the community: Transitional Employment, Supported Employment, and Independent Employment. Clubhouse members are guided through the process of finding gainful employment using this system and are given opportunities at a pace that reflects their strengths and needs. Additionally, TE, SE, and IE positions (as they are affectionately referred) grant local employers with possibilities found only in collaborating with Clubhouses and through this shared effort, fight stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness. For a detailed understanding of the scope of Clubhouse employment, please see below.

Transitional Employment

  •  Part-time, entry-level positions

  • These positions are time limited and last for six to nine months

  • Jobs are generally Monday through Friday and during typical work hours

  • Consistent job duties and schedules that are managed by the Clubhouse

  • The Clubhouse staff learn the job and train the member until all parties agree the member is able to work independently

  • Absence coverage is guaranteed by the Clubhouse and free of charge to the employer

  • More intensive Clubhouse support

  • Enables members to develop skills and self-confidence

  •  A stepping-stone to long-term employment success

Supported Employment

  • The Clubhouse has a relationship with the employer

  • Clubhouse staff assist the member in training and mastering the job

  • The level of support is defined by the member and tailored to their individual needs

  • Not time-limited and absence coverage is not provided by the Clubhouse

  • A Supported Employment job may become Independent Employment if less support is needed

Independent employment

  • Members may obtain these jobs with or without Clubhouse assistance

  • Not time-limited and absence coverage is not provided by the Clubhouse

  • Supports are provided at the Clubhouse but not on the job site (For example: assistance with developing a resumé, conducting a job search, dressing and interviewing for jobs, addressing and resolving workplace issues that may arise, and assistance with tax and benefit/healthcare issues)

  • The Clubhouse helps members in preparing for a career and growing in the position