Forensic Interviewer-Chld Protection

Overview

Forensic Interviewer – Child Protection Center

UnityPoint Health - Allen 

Shift: Full-time Days

Benefits Eligible

The Forensic Interviewer 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.  In collaboration with the Department of Human Services (DHS) and law enforcement, the Forensic Interviewer makes recommendations for ongoing support services to the child and their family based on observational assessments of the patient, education, training and research and best-practice outcomes.  The Forensic Interviewer also participates in the court process through provision of depositions and trial testimony as an expert witness in the area of child abuse. The Forensic Interviewer must be knowledgeable about research and best practices within the field of child abuse investigations and provide ongoing training for members of the Multi-Disciplinary Team throughout the service area. The Forensic Interviewer is responsible for carrying out the philosophy and objectives of the Allen Child Protection Center/Allen Memorial Hospital.

Why UnityPoint Health?

At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.  Here are just a few:      

• Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   

• Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  

• Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.   

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.

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

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in the Behavioral Sciences (Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Criminal Justice, Education, etc.) Master's degree preferred.
• Must attend training as a forensic interviewer within the first 12 months of employment.

Licensure/Certification:

• Valid driver’s license when driving any vehicle for work-related reasons.

Experience:

• Minimum of three years of experience working in a human service field.

Preferred:

• 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.