Under the direction of the Special Projects Coordinator and within federal, state and local guidelines performs complex human services support work. Work involves providing information to clients or assisting staff in the delivery of social services. May train others.

The Family Partner will provide services to families that are receiving all Levels of Care to help with referrals, advocacy and empowerment by providing Wraparound process or informal skills training. The Family Partner is a formal member of the Wraparound team whose role is to serve the family and help them engage and actively participate on the team and make informed decisions that drive the process. Family Partners have a strong connection to the community and are very knowledgeable about resources, services and supports for families. The Family Partner's personal experience is critical to earning the respect of families and establishing trusting relationships that is valued by the family. The Family Partner can be a mediator, facilitator or bridge between families and agencies. Family Partners ensure each family is heard and their individual needs are being addressed and met. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Education, Training, and Experience

• Education High School Diploma or GED is required to qualify as a Family Partner. Must become a Certified Family Partner within 1- year of employment. Must have at least one year experience of raising a child with special needs.
• Must have experience navigating the Mental Health System, Special Education or Juvenile Justice System. Need a good knowledge base of mental illness diagnoses and behavior disorders in children and/or adolescents.
• Must be able to collaborate closely with a team of family members and professionals to develop and implement individualized plans of care. Must have a flexible schedule in order to meet with the family teams at times that are convenient to the team, so as to ensure active participation of all wraparound team members.

Registration, Certification, Licensure, and Other Qualifications

• Must have and maintain a background and criminal history free from any disqualifying offenses as outlined by the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and automobile insurance.
• Individuals with an out-of-state driver's license must be able to obtain a driver's license in the state of Texas within thirty (30) days.
• Successful completion of all position-specific training within thirty (30) days of employment is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the needs, problems, and community environments of people with disabilities; of community and government service delivery systems; of case management systems; and of community welfare resources.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written and the ability to be assertive with authorities in other agencies as needed.
• Skill in conducting individual needs assessments and in the operation of computers and applicable computer software.
• Must be able to obtain certification as a Certified Family Partner within one year of hire
•  Ability to negotiate services, to communicate effectively, and to train others
• Ability to display regular and reliable (in-person, if required) attendance.
• Understanding and practice of Trauma Informed Care principles.

Essential Duties

The following list outlines key responsibilities for the position; however, it is not exhaustive and does not encompass all responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

1. Researches sources and educates families about resources in their community which meet their specific needs; assists parents/caregivers/consumers in accessing social supports.

2. Maintains accurate and concise documentation of contacts with family, team members and providers, including follow-up on referrals made.

3. Teaches families/caregivers effective advocacy skills; provides Wraparound services for qualifying families.

4. Serves as Peer Mentor to parents/caregivers of families served and lending informal support.

5. Facilitates caregivers' ability to work collaboratively with professionals in the community.

6. Scheduling and overseeing an on-going Family Support Group for the purpose and re-enforcement of family coping skills, stronger family unity, and achieving fluidity in functioning with day-to-day needs of children with mental illness; these groups will be held in Denton and Lewisville twice a month. The Center will reimburse contractors for refreshments for the group sessions, not to exceed $150.00 annually. A receipt must be provided for every purchase and then submitted to the supervisor for approval on a monthly basis.

7. Maintains acceptable driving record as required for DCMHMR insurance. Perform additional duties as deemed necessary by department supervisor within designated time frames.

8. Delivers services and supports that reflect the unique cultural values and practices of each child and family.

9. Provides emergency intervention when necessary, according to Department of Human Services (DHS) and Center Policies and Procedures. Provides verbal and physical PMAB intervention correctly when necessary; provides CPR in an emergency until other medical aid arrives; provides emergency and non-emergency first aid until professional medical aid arrives or as directed by a licensed medical professional. Participates in the Center's 10. Zero Suicide Initiative.

• Supports individuals experiencing a crisis by promptly connecting them with appropriate Center programs, such as the Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT), Psychiatric Triage, Crisis Prevention services, and/or other applicable resources. Ensure seamless coordination to facilitate timely intervention.
• Remains with individuals, when deemed safe, to provide support and maintain a calm environment until specialized crisis staff or emergency personnel arrive to take over intervention efforts. Adheres to safety protocols to prevent escalation of the crisis situation.
• Participates in debriefing sessions with the immediate supervisor or designated staff following a crisis event. Collaborate with the team to review the incident, identify lessons learned, and ensure all HHSC guidelines and Center policies are followed.