What is it like working ICT/ACT? (Community treatment program)

[Zyprexa_Ho]

Hi all,

I have an opportunity to join an ACT (assertive community treatment program for seriously mentally ill individuals). Should I take it? Pros? Cons?

[Sheroe]

I worked in ACT as a clinical social worker (am currently applying to nursing school). Pros are how quickly you see improvements in the clients and how tangible the results are. I like how close the team becomes and how the treatment model bonds the staff together. Cons are: long hours and difficulty with work/life balance. Possible 24hr on call schedule. The cons are part of why I left ACT, but since then the ACT program I worked for in LA County added a support hotline for ACT staff, etc (possibly b/c of high turn over). Some of the cons may not apply as a nurse, but do ask about scheduling and the cons in your interview, etc. Good luck!