Trauma-Informed Foster Care Crisis Counselor

Safe Families; Evanston (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Safe Families seeks a dedicated professional to support youth and families in the Lydia Home Treatment Foster Care program, delivering trauma-informed, relationship-based care to prevent crises and de-escalate situations. In-home crisis support, collaboration with clinical staff, on-call duties, and potential Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) certification are part of the role.

The position emphasizes building trust, supervision during crisis interventions, and assisting with residential

Qualifications

• Must be at least 25 years of age.
• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Must be in good physical and mental health; able to lift 40 pounds and stand a majority of an 8-hour shift.
• DCFS Rule 132 allows a Bachelor's in human services or equivalent clinical experience.
• Demonstrates effective written and oral communication skills.
• Able to demonstrate sound professional judgment and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to nurture, set healthy limits, and work with an interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Support youth and families with trauma-informed, relationship-based care to de-escalate crises.
• Provide in-home crisis support and coordinate next steps with clinical staff.
• Assume on-call responsibilities and follow crisis protocols.
• Be certified in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) and conduct related debriefings.
• Supervise and support youth during crisis stabilization in residential and home settings.
• Spend time with youth and families to build relationships and provide short-term respite care.

Skills

Written communication

Oral communication

Leadership

Organization skills

Professional judgment

Problem-solving

Relationship-building

Education

Bachelor's degree in human services

Bachelor's degree in non-human services + 2 years clinical experience

High school diploma / GED + 5 years clinical experience

Job description

Safe Families seeks a dedicated professional to support youth and families in the Lydia Home Treatment Foster Care program, delivering trauma-informed, relationship-based care to prevent crises and de-escalate situations. In-home crisis support, collaboration with clinical staff, on-call duties, and potential Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) certification are part of the role.

The position emphasizes building trust, supervision during crisis interventions, and assisting with residential