This is the first in what we hope will be a series of IFPS success stories from programs around the country. To make this series possible, we need to hear from you. If you are interested in sharing a success story as a guest blogger, please e-mail Peg Marckworth (peg@marckworth.com).

The Walker Family

The Walker story shows us how an IFPS intervention unfolds, with each step reinforcing the last and setting the stage for the next. It also illustrates the vast array of factors that influence outcomes in IFPS interventions.

We see how attention to concrete services including fixing a gas leak, obtaining a cell phone, and putting up curtains facilitates relationship and trust between the therapist and family members—as well as resolving stressful and potentially dangerous situations.

At referral, CPS had decided that Christie and Billy would both be placed in foster care unless the family agreed to intensive services.

• Christie Walker was born premature and spent the first three months of her life in the hospital. She was ready to come home but there were concerns about what Christie would face at home
• Christie’s brother Billy, age three, was diagnosed as hyperactive with some brain damage.
• Billy had suffered three concussions over the past year
• Another infant in the family had died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
• CPS was suspicious of the injuries sustained by the 3 year old, and about the former infant death
• The family had had an open CPS case in another state, but left that state when the mother became pregnant with the current infant

The family’s public health nurse and the CPS caseworker discussed their concerns with the parents and the CPS caseworker referred the parents, William and Judy, to Intensive Family Preservation Services (IFPS).

Click here to read the whole story and its outcome.

.

_______________
Posted by Peg Marckworth