The Substance Abuse Engagement Project is designed to engage families with open cases through the Department of Social Services (DSS) (Massachusetts’ child welfare agency) who have documented substance abuse problems, but who are not engaged in any type of substance abuse treatment.  An IHR Family Engagement Specialist (FES) works closely with DSS social workers and DSS-referred families from the Lynn, Lawrence, and Salem areas to engage them in substance abuse treatment. The project originally began as a pilot from March 2004 – June 2005, then resumed through DSS Family Networks funding in July 2006.

The FES meets individually with clients, as well as with clients and their DSS workers, family members, or other individuals who play a significant role in the client’s treatment and recovery. The FES and client review the DSS service plan, set goals around the individual’s treatment and recovery needs, and identify resources. The FES works to engage clients in treatment by assessing their substance use, mental health, trauma, and other factors that may affect their treatment and recovery, providing clinical support and information around substance use, treatment options, and recovery. In addition, the FES may assist clients in making initial referrals to treatment services, develop a relapse prevention plan, and/or provide transportation to meetings or appointments.

The Family Engagement Specialist also has regular contact with DSS professionals involved in the cases. In addition to joint meetings between the FES, DSS social worker, and client, regular case review meetings occur at each area office to discuss and strategize around each case. Through ongoing telephone contact, case review meetings, and client meetings, the FES provides DSS professionals with ongoing education and information about substance use, treatment and recovery.