Family Preservation Specialist

Overview

The Family Preservation Specialist provides intensive, home-based services to families across multiple Indiana counties, including Marion and Lake County, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS). The primary goal of this role is to ensure child safety, prevent out-of-home placement, and strengthen overall family functioning.

Services are family-centered, culturally responsive, and focused on improving coping skills, enhancing family resilience, and supporting safe, stable home environments. This role plays a critical part in preserving families, reducing risk factors, and promoting long-term positive outcomes for children and caregivers.

Essential duties and responsibilities

• 1.
• Provides home-based services in alignment with DCS Family Preservation Service Standards.
• 2.
• Conducts comprehensive family assessments to identify strengths, needs, and safety concerns.
• 3.
• Develops and implements individualized treatment/service plans in collaboration with families and DCS.
• 4.
• Ensures safety plans are established, monitored, and updated for all identified concerns.
• 5.
• Completes initial treatment plans within required timelines (e.g., within 30 days of program entry).
• 6.
• Maintains a minimum of weekly face-to-face contact with families, or more frequently based on assessed needs.
• 7.
• Monitors progress toward goals and adjusts service plans accordingly.
• 8.
• Provides in-home support, including parenting education, skill-building, and behavior management strategies.
• 9.
• Coordinates and connects families to community resources, including mental health, medical, educational, and social services.
• 10.
• Participates in Child and Family Team Meetings (CFTMs) and collaborates with DCS Family Case 11.
• Managers (FCMs) and other providers.
• 12.
• Provides crisis intervention and support as needed.
• 13.
• Maintains timely and accurate documentation, including progress notes and monthly reports, in accordance with agency and DCS requirements.

14. Supports family reunification and preservation efforts in alignment with treatment plans and court orders. 15. Attends supervision, training, and team meetings as required. 16. Adheres to all agency policies, confidentiality standards, and professional expectations.