Socio-Therapist

Location: Ozone Park, NY. Reports to: Casework Supervisor. Department: Enhanced Family Foster Care.

About the Agency

MercyFirst is a not-for-profit human and social service agency that has been serving children and families in need since we were founded by the Sisters of Mercy/Hermanas de las Misericordia in 1894. Today our agency continues to address the emotional and physical needs of children and families in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and across Long Island through innovative treatments and life-changing interventions. We provide community-based prevention and family foster care services, group homes in the community for struggling children and families within the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, and short-term residential services for unaccompanied migrant children. Each year, MercyFirst serves more than 3,000 children, teenagers and families overcome enormous obstacles, re-imagine their futures and develop their full potential.

Program Background

To meet the needs of New York City’s ever-changing foster care population, Enhanced Family Foster Care (EFFC) combines and replaces the previous separately contracted Family Foster Care (FFC) and Treatment Family Foster Care (TFFC) programs. EFFC recognizes that all children in care have experienced some level of trauma, that their needs may change over time, and that their strengths must be supported so they can reach their full potential.

Position Summary

A Socio-Therapist works with children and youth who need a higher level of care than regular foster home due to the child’s particular needs. The Socio-Therapist provides additional supports to the foster parents and family and works in conjunction with a caseworker to help ensure that every child is making progress towards permanency.

Qualifications

• Master's in Social Work or related field
• 1 year of related work experience in serving children and/or families
• Knowledge of and/or training in child development stages
• Knowledge of and/or training in family dynamics
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook
• Ability to engage with clients
• A valid driver’s license is strongly preferred
• Understanding and willingness to commit to the agency’s Mission, core