Welcome to our Employment Readiness Group. This is a therapeutic group for Emerging Adults ages 18-26 who are interested in further developing the skills to Choose, Get, and Keep a job consistent with their interests and abilities. The group utilizes a “Tell-Show-Do” model of learning, in which skill development occurs through curriculum-based sessions, role-play & practice with peers and group leaders. Attendees are encouraged to apply for jobs throughout group, and will receive support from group leaders and peers.
Navigating the employment world, its social aspects, and stressors associated with obtaining and maintaining work can be a daunting experience. Each hands-on lesson will help Emerging Adults increase self-awareness, and develop and practice skills to be successful as they prepare and enter the workforce. This group will include “hard skill” development such as resume writing, but most of the focus will be on learning and practicing the skills necessary to both obtain and maintain a job.
Topics and Activities in the Group Include:
- Anxiety Management
- Motivation for Work & Exploration of Past Job Experiences
- Goal Setting
- Organizational Skills for the Job Search
- Application & Resume Development
- Learning How to Navigate the Job Process
- Emotional Regulation and Distress Tolerance
- Workplace Social & Communication Skills
- Handling Difficult Situations in the Workplace
- Interview Practice with Videotape Review
- Self-Advocacy & Disability Disclosure
- Self-Care & Wellness
- Money Management, Saving, and Budgeting
Typical group meetings will consist of a learning topic paired with practice and/or role play of the concepts discussed. Between group meetings, participants will be asked to complete an activity to reinforce learning and/or prepare for the next meeting.
The group utilizes Evidence Based Practices on Supported Employment that are outlined by SAMHSA, as well as curriculum from Boston University’s vocational rehabilitation program.
Group Facilitators:
Michael Reiter
Dr. Michael Reiter earned his Masters and Doctoral degrees from The George Washington University. Dr. Reiter specializes in working with emerging adults who are struggling to launch, and their families. He works with emerging adults to help them become more independent and to manage and overcome challenges, which can include: Anxiety Disorders, Executive Functioning Challenges / ADHD, Technology Overuse, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. His article on Emerging Adults was featured in CHADD’s Attention Magazine:
Dr. Reiter has seen an unfulfilled need for employment support and professional development for emerging adults who are struggling to move forward, or are new to the employment process. As a result, we developed the Employment Readiness Group outlined above.