What's the role of a vocational job coach?

I'm considering a career in mental health, and I heard about vocational job coaches. Can someone explain what a vocational job coach does, specific to mental health agencies?

A vocational job coach typically works in mental health agencies or other social service organizations to help individuals, often with disabilities or mental health challenges, access the job market and maintain meaningful employment. Their role spans various aspects tailored to the needs of their clients.

1. Career Guidance: They provide career advice, helping clients set realistic career goals based on their skills, interests, and challenges. They may conduct vocational assessments to understand the client's suitability for different job roles.

2. Skill Development: Vocational job coaches often facilitate training sessions to improve job-related skills. They could help develop soft skills like social interaction and communication as well as hard skills like computer literacy or specialized industry training.

3. Job Placement Assistance: They work closely with local businesses and employment agencies to secure job opportunities for clients. Part of this work, particularly in the context of mental health, often involves advocating for the potential of individuals who may face stigma or discrimination due to their health conditions.

4. Job Adaptation: Post placement, the vocational job coach works with both the client and employer to ensure a smooth transition. They may help adapt the job environment to the client's needs and monitor their work performance, offering mentorship and guidance as required.

5. Ongoing Support: The vocational job coach also provides continuous support. They help clients handle job-related stress, and navigate any work-related issues that could potentially exacerbate their mental health conditions, encouraging resilience and stability in the work environment.

Remember, the role may vary depending on the specific context, but these tasks generally characterize the core responsibilities of a vocational job coach in mental health agencies.