A Group-Intensive Peer Support Model of Case Management for Supported Housing

A group-intensive peer support (GIPS) model of case management for supported housing initiatives is proposed. The principles behind the model and initial experiences with its implementation are described. To promote social reintegration and recovery, GIPS provides housing subsidies and is clinically based on group meetings as the default mode of case management, relying on individual community-based case management interventions on an as-needed basis. The process of finding and sustaining independent housing is articulated as a 21-step process in which peers coach and support one another in achieving each of the steps. The GIPS model has been implemented at the Connecticut VA by five full-time case managers serving approximately 80 veterans. Group meetings are conducted four times a week at various locations ranging in size from three to 25 clients per group. Groups helped maintain frequent contact with clients, minimized staff travel time, and fostered client information-sharing, peer support, and community adaptation. Case vignettes from three different phases of GIPS are used to illustrate the potential benefit for both client well-being and more efficient use of staff time. GIPS is a conceptually promising alternative approach that may be of special value in large multisite programs because it promotes peer support, staff efficiency, and client social reintegration.