Interviewer - Child Protection Center

The Forensic Interviewer is responsible for the psychosocial history and assessment interviews of children 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 coordinates a care plan for ongoing support services to the child and their family. The Forensic Interviewer is responsible for carrying out the philosophy and objectives of the STAR Center, as well as the philosophy and objectives established by Blank Children's Hospital, STAR Center Steering Committee.

The Forensic Interviewer works within the philosophy and structure of Blank Children's Hospital to develop, operate and support activities that benefit the Center and the community we serve.

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* Interviews parents/caregivers, law enforcement officers and DHS personnel regarding the developmental and psychosocial history of the child, the circumstances of the referral and existing allegations.

* Interviews the child to assist DHS and law enforcement in obtaining credible victim/witness statements, and improving prosecution outcomes.

* Conducts interviews with child-focused, developmentally appropriate, research-based best practice techniques regarding interviewing children.

* Utilizes a holistic approach (considering physical, psychosocial, spiritual, cultural, educational, safety and related criteria) to meet the needs of the child and their family.

* Provides referrals for ongoing treatment services, and coordinates service access with DHS and the child's family.

* Participates as a member of a multidisciplinary team to coordinate investigation and follow up services.

* Demonstrates ability to accurately describe Center protocols, integrate theoretical literature and current research knowledge in order to provide credible expert witness deposition and court room testimony.

* Participates and presents educational programs both within UnityPoint Health Des Moines and the community as a resource for child abuse and protection issues.

* Operates computer system to record and retrieve appropriate information.

* Performs functions other than described above due to extenuating circumstances, and at the discretion of the Coordinator.

* Maintains confidentiality of patient information and records as directed by the policies of the STAR Center, UnityPoint Des Moines, Iowa Code 235A and Iowa Administrative Code 498-175.

Education:

MSW or MS degree in a mental health field required.

Experience:

Completed a minimum of two years direct service experience.

License(s)/Certification(s):

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

Licensed from the State of Iowa preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Demonstrated ability to work with children and families in crisis.

Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with diverse professional groups.

Demonstrated knowledge of family dysfunction, child development, mental health and substance abuse.

Familiarity with organization and functioning of legal systems, human services, child protection systems, law enforcement and health professionals.

Effective coping skills for functioning in a high stress environment.

Ability to learn basic computer and audio/visual operation skills.