Family Engagement

The Family Engagement Program supports parents in safely caring for children who have experienced trauma or are diagnosed with a mental health disorder.

The Family Engagement team of specialists understand that parents, too, have a need for connection, and reliable, nurturing relationships in order to provide the same to their children. Family Engagement staff focus first, on connecting and role modeling what meaningful relationships look and feel like.

 

Key concepts regarding family engagement:

Family participation: Families are actively involved in treatment planning and decision-making.

Family education: Families are receptive to information about treatment goals and their expected roles for the duration of treatment.

Collaboration: Professional, relatable staff work collaboratively with families and other stakeholders to provide comprehensive services.

Cultural competency: Family Engagement efforts are conducted with cultural awareness and sensitivity to effectively connect with diverse families.

Support systems: Families have access to formal support within the context of the services offered but also informally within their broader communities.

 

 

Through use of Trauma Informed Parenting and Present Moment Parenting models, parents not only gain understanding for the reasons behind their child’s needs but, develop a “toolbox” to assist them in supporting their children. Parents also find the support and resources to create positive meaningful relationships with their children.  

Family Engagement Programming consists of family goal setting and establishing steps to meet the goals, and regular interaction between the child, parent and staff.

Suggested weekly activities between Parent/Child/Staff achieve:

• Rebuilt Trust
• Healing and Connection/Reconnection
• Repairing the relationship/Do-overs
• Child/Parent letters
• Focus on positive interactions

Suggested minimum weekly reviews for Parent/Staff:

• The Impact of Trauma
• Acting Out Pain v. Talking About Pain
• Protective Factors
• 10 Tenants of Parenting
• Types of parents: Focus on Authoritative Parenting
• Reflective listening/Holding space
• Family Meetings

 

Get started by completing the referral form found here!