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Form of work
SalaryThe Therapeutic Caseworker (MST-CAN) provides casework support using the Multisystemic Therapy Child Abuse and Neglect (MST-CAN) model, with the aim of producing positive change for children and families. MST-CAN is a researched community-based treatment model directed at families with children ages 6-17 years old where there is physical abuse and/or neglect. This internationally recognised program has proven to keep families together, prevent children entering out-of-home care, increase safety for children and young people, and reduce mental health difficulties experienced by adults and children. You can find out more about MST-CAN here:
Approximately three weeks of training in the MST-CAN model is included in the onboarding process, and you are supported to implement the model through weekly group supervision and regular individual supervision. Quarterly refreshers are held in areas of particular interest and need, and additional professional development activities can be accessed throughout the course of the role. The MST-CAN Therapeutic Caseworker works in a supportive team environment with the Lead and three Therapists. MST-CAN is a collaborative treatment model and so you will also be working with relevant members of the family's ecology, such as extended family, schools and external agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Work closely with MST-CAN Therapists, model developers and DCJ in the provision of in home MST-CAN service delivery where there has been physical abuse and /or neglect of a child aged 6-17 years.
- Deliver the service in a culturally inclusive framework for Aboriginal and culturally diverse families with respect and attention to the additional complexities of working with Aboriginal and CALD families within the child protection system.
- Facilitate and participate in the development and review of the family's treatment plan in accordance with the program model timeframes. Ensure plans are linked to safety risks and referral behaviours.
- Contribute positively to the development of collaborative partnerships with DCJ Community Service Centres in the region and other key organisations. Establish and maintain community networks when required.
- Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Social Science, Childhood Education or a related subject area. Persons with a related bachelor's degree and significant clinical experience may also qualify.
- At least 3 years' experience working with families in a Therapeutic setting.
- Experience working with families in a community-based setting.
- Experience working with child protection and court systems.
- Experience managing suicidal or homicidal threats and family safety risks.
- Demonstrated knowledge of behavioural therapy targeting behavioural change in children at home and school.
- Demonstrated experience implementing interventions within or between systems in the youth's natural ecology that affect or influence the behaviour of youth (i.e., family, peer, school, and community).
- Ability and willingness to work flexible hours and on-call to meet the needs of families as required.
- Current driver's licence and willingness to transport families in company vehicles.
- Salary from $90,898 plus super and access to generous salary packaging options of up to $16,000 per annum and entertainment allowance of up to $2,600 per annum.
- Access to a range of employee benefits (U-Rewards program, flex time and additional week of annual leave over Christmas, Benestar Employee Assistance Program and the Uniting With Hearts Reward and Recognition Program)
- Training and mentoring opportunities
Applications close: Monday, 5 December 2022
Employment with Uniting is subject to satisfactory background checks which include a National Police Check and Reference Check and confirmation of covid vaccinations.
