This study examined the effectiveness of Minnesota Mainstream, a program serving professional individuals with psychiatric disabilities. The study also examined common career patterns among professional persons with psychiatric disabilities. Program participants (N=187), staff, and mentors were interviewed. Data were analyzed in terms of participant demographic characteristics, program satisfaction, higher educational history, employment history, employment outcomes, career patterns, independent living and housing, satisfaction with life, relative importance of employment, age of onset, and type of psychiatric disability. Conclusions include: (1) because Minnesota Mainstream has demonstrated success, it should be carefully replicated by other community-based rehabilitation programs; (2) while the use of mentors shows promise, the results of this study are not conclusive; and (3) career development for persons with psychiatric disabilities is complex and variable, although five specific career patterns were identified. One recommendation is that the relative importance of vocational goals to other goals be considered during individual planning and service provision. Individual chapters review the related literature, describe the study's methodology, report results, and discuss conclusions. Three appendices contain sample data collection instruments, informed consent forms, and identification forms. (Contains 53 references.) (DB)