What are the responsibilities and job description for the Forensic Interviewer-Child Protection position at UnityPoint Health?
- Area of Interest: Behavioral Health Services
- FTE/Hours per pay period: 0.8
- Department: Free Clinics- Allen Child Prot
- Shift: Days
- Job ID: 159831
Overview
Forensic Interviewer - Child Protection Center
UnityPoint Health - Allen
Shift: Full-time Days
Benefits Eligible
The Forensic Interviewer is a member of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) and is responsible for the interviewing of children and dependent adults who are reported to have been sexually, physically abused or neglected; or have been a witness to violence or illegal activity. Forensic Interviewers must adhere to established research-based guidelines and best practices when conducting interviews and collaborate with MDT partners, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and law enforcement. Forensic Interviewers are required to produce high quality written documentation of interviews. The Forensic Interviewer also participates in the court process through provision of depositions and trial testimony.
Responsibilities
- Works collaboratively with MDT members to provide a coordinated, comprehensive, compassionate, and professional response during a child or dependent adult abuse investigation/assessment.
- Interviews parents/caregivers and multidisciplinary team members regarding history of patient, circumstances of the referral, and existing allegations.
- Conducts forensic interviews of children and dependent adults who are suspected victims of abuse or who have witnessed crime in accordance with research-based guidelines and established policies, procedures, and standards of care
- Promptly prepares written reports of the forensic interview for members of the multidisciplinary team
- Documents data/information in Epic and NCAtrak.
- Actively participate in Case Review meetings, Child Protection Center staff meetings, and other training/collaboration opportunities.
- Serves on committees and provides community trainings about child abuse, prevention, and CPC services.
- Prepares for and provides depositions and court testimony regarding CPC cases and requested expert testimony.
- Participates in regular forensic interview peer review to ensure the development and strengthening of skills.
- Engages in professional development activities related to forensic interviewing, child abuse, and any other trainings identified appropriate for the role. Shares information learned with colleagues and utilizes newly acquired knowledge to enhance services provided.
- Maintains licensure if applicable.
- Maintains knowledge of and engages in activities that support the National Children's Alliance accreditation standards.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in the Behavioral Sciences (Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Criminal Justice, Education, etc.).
- Must attend training as a forensic interviewer within the first 12 months of employment
- Minimum of three years of experience working in a human service field.
Preferred:
- Master's degree in the Behavioral Sciences
- Experience working in the field of child abuse and/or child abuse prevention.
- Experience participating on multidisciplinary teams.
- Experience with court testimony and familiarity with the court process.
- Experience providing presentations and ongoing training to professionals working with children and/or child abuse investigations.