Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Therapist

Kaleidoscope-Inc; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Kaleidoscope Inc. in Chicago is seeking a Full-Time Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Therapist to join our field-based, hybrid team. You will provide short-term clinical intervention for youth at risk of placement disruption in homes and community settings.

The role requires a Master’s in Social Work, at least 2 years of experience, and the ability to travel throughout Cook County to support youth and families. LCPC/LCSW preferred; CWEL and CANS certifications may be pursued.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Social Work or related social service field.
• Minimum of 2 years of social service or related experience.
• LCSW or LCPC preferred (not required).
• Ability to obtain and maintain CWEL, CANS, and other Illinois certifications.
• Valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and ability to travel throughout Cook County.

Responsibilities

• Provide community- and home-based clinical services to assigned children, youth, and caregivers.
• Respond to IPS referrals with initial face-to-face assessments.
• Conduct initial and ongoing assessments for youth and caregiver.
• Develop, review, and update Individual Treatment Plans (ITPs).
• Deliver therapeutic interventions outlined in ITPs to support caregiver-child relationships and placement stability.
• Maintain timely documentation of admissions, ongoing, and closing activities.
• Demonstrate knowledge of IPS Program Plan requirements, COA standards, and DCFS policies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Documentation

Education

Master's degree in Social Work

Tools

Microsoft Office

Outlook

Job description

Chicago, IL Full-Time | Exempt | Community-Based / Hybrid

This is a field-based, hybrid position. You must live in Illinois and be able to travel throughout Cook County to provide in-person services to youth and families in homes and community settings.

Make a Real Impact with Youth and Families Across Chicago

Kaleidoscope is a child and family services agency dedicated to helping young people heal, grow, and thrive. Our work is grounded in compassion, respect, and genuine partnership with youth, caregivers, and community partners. Through individualized, community-based services, we strengthen family systems and promote long-term stability.

We are seeking a Full-Time Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Therapist to join our highly collaborative, mission-driven team.

About the Role

The IPS Therapist provides short-term, intensive clinical intervention for youth at risk of placement disruption. Working closely with caregivers, caseworkers, and professional teams, the IPS Therapist assesses needs, delivers therapeutic services, and coordinates care to help stabilize placements and strengthen caregiver-child relationships.

What You'll Do

• Provide community- and home-based clinical services to assigned children, youth, and caregivers
• Respond promptly to IPS referrals by completing initial face-to-face assessments with the child and family team
• Conduct thorough initial and ongoing assessments for each assigned youth and caregiver
• Collaborate with child and family teams to develop, review, and update Individual Treatment Plans (ITPs)
• Deliver therapeutic interventions outlined in the ITP to support caregiver-child relationships and placement stability
• Maintain consistent communication with family members and professional team members to ensure coordinated care
• Document all admission, ongoing, and closing activities in a timely manner using approved forms
• Demonstrate working knowledge of IPS Program Plan requirements, COA standards, and DCFS policies and procedures
• Participate in supervision, consultation, and professional development activities
• Complete additional duties as assigned by the IPS Manager

Schedule & Work Environment

• Full-time, flexible schedule
• Work hours are based on the needs of children and families and may include evenings and weekends
• Combination of community-based work and professional office environment

What You Need

• Master's degree in Social Work or a related social service field
• Minimum of 2 years of social service or related experience
• LCSW or LCPC preferred (not required)
• Ability to obtain and maintain CWEL, CANS, and other required Illinois certifications
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook
• Valid driver's license, insured vehicle, ability to pass MVR, and to travel throughout Cook County
• Comfort working independently in the community while collaborating within a team

What It's Like to Work at Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope is a supportive, mission-driven organization guided by shared values that shape how we serve youth, families, and one another:

• Lead with empathy and non-judgment
• Practice self-awareness
• Name power imbalances and structural limitations
• Center youth and caregiver voice and choice
• Demonstrate flexibility and resourcefulness
• Balance healthy boundaries with authentic relationships
• Stay connected to purpose
• Prioritize self-care
• Commit to critical thinking and curiosity
• Celebrate strengths and successes

Why You'll Love This Role

• Opportunity to provide meaningful, hands-on clinical impact
• Supportive supervision and collaborative clinical team
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Flexible scheduling to meet family needs
• Mission-driven work focused on placement stability and family preservation

Equal Employment Opportunity

Kaleidoscope Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Inclusive/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.