Intensive Family Preservation/Reunification Specialist

Intensive Family Preservation/Reunification Specialist:

Job Description

Position Summary
The Intensive Family Preservation/Reunification Specialist plays a crucial role in
facilitating the safe and lasting reunification of families whose children have been placed
in out-of-home care. This position requires a dedicated and compassionate individual
with a strong commitment to family preservation and child well-being. The specialist will
work directly with families, children, and various community partners to address the
underlying issues that led to separation and to build a supportive environment for
successful preservation/reunification.

Key Responsibilities
● Case Management:
     ○ Develop and implement individualized family preservation/reunification
      plans in collaboration with families and other stakeholders.
     ○ Conduct regular home visits and assess family progress, identifying
     strengths and areas needing improvement.
     ○ Monitor child safety and well-being throughout the
     preservation/reunification process.
     ○ Maintain accurate and timely case documentation, including progress notes,
     reports, and statistical data.
● Family Support and Intervention:
     ○ Provide intensive in-home support, guidance, and education to parents and
     caregivers on parenting skills, child development, and behavior
     management.
     ○ Facilitate family meetings and mediation sessions to improve
     communication and resolve conflicts.
     ○ Connect families with community resources, such as housing assistance,
     employment services, mental health counseling, and substance abuse
     treatment.
     ○ Advocate for families within the child welfare system and other service
     agencies.
● Collaboration and Coordination:
     ○ Work closely with child welfare agencies, courts, schools, and other
     community partners to ensure coordinated service delivery.
     ○ Participate in case conferences and team meetings to discuss family
     progress and adjust intervention strategies.
     ○ Build and maintain strong professional relationships with all involved parties.
● Training and Development:
     ○ Attend ongoing training and professional development opportunities to
     enhance skills and knowledge in family preservation/reunification best
     practices.
     ○ Stay informed about current research and trends in child welfare and family
     services.

Qualifications
● Education: PLMHP, LMHP, LIMHP, or Master's degree in Counseling and/or Social
Work and have completed all of the enrolled educational institution’s required
classes to be able to obtain internship hours.
● Experience:
     ○ Minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with families in a child welfare
     or family preservation setting.
     ○ Experience with crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques.
     ○ Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles.
● Skills:
     ○ Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
     ○ Strong organizational and time management abilities.
     ○ Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
     ○ Proficiency in case management software.
● Other Requirements:
     ○ Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
     ○ Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and some weekends, as
     needed.
     ○ Successful completion of a criminal background check and child abuse
     clearance.

Work Environment
This position involves a combination of office-based work and extensive fieldwork,
including home visits in various community settings. The specialist may encounter
challenging family dynamics and situations requiring empathy, resilience, and
professional boundaries.

To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Jennifer Long at
jlong@familyfoundationservices.org