Module 5 – Case Planning, Family Strengthening, and Planning for Safety for Families with a Substance Use Disorder

The goal of Training Module 5 is to provide child welfare workers with an understanding of the importance of responding to families affected by substance use disorders from a strengths-based perspective while providing ongoing safety assessment and monitoring a family’s progress over time. This module also highlights the importance of incorporating information about an individual or family’s substance use and treatment services into their case plan and ongoing safety planning. The module emphasizes that supporting families in identifying strengths throughout the process can create long-term successful outcomes for children and families.

After completing this training, child welfare workers will:

• Recognize assessment as a process, not an event, and understand the importance of ongoing assessment and evaluation.
• Identify the effect of parental substance use disorders on child safety.
• Develop a case plan to meet the needs of families with a substance use disorder that integrates ongoing planning for safety.
• Implement strategies for monitoring progress.
• Identify and build on family strengths for successful outcomes.

• Use the *** bolded discussion questions integrated in the module talking points to enrich the training.
• Integrate the child welfare safety methodology used in your state, highlighting areas where substance use disorders are assessed.
• Consider assessment of family functioning, strengths and needs, and the methodology used in the context of substance use disorders.
• Supplement content with information about services available through the child welfare agency or community agencies to families for assessment and treatment of substance use disorders, including referral forms, agency release of information, or other necessary procedures to facilitate access to services and communication about progress.
• Highlight information about available supportive services for families affected by substance use disorders, such as peer mentors, transportation, housing, or other supportive services.
• Share or incorporate agency policy and procedures about visitation or parenting time and drug-testing protocols.

• Computer and projector
• Speakers
• Internet access
• PowerPoint slides
• Facilitator's Guide
• Flip chart paper or white board (for use as a visual aid during discussion)