If you have a passion for helping others, and especially if you want to help foster kids and teens discover a better future, Quinte Children’s Homes wants to chat with you.
On Tuesday, July 31, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., we will be hosting a free information session in Belleville for anyone interested in becoming a foster parent (what we call a Parent Therapist). Refreshments will be provided, with a lot of opportunity to ask questions.
“We’ll introduce the work we do, the different programs we offer, and how they all work together,” explained Cara Pinchuk, program coordinator for Quinte Children’s Homes and Applewood Academy for Progressive Learning.
“Parent Therapists play a key role in the work we do, and we want people interested in joining our team to understand how they fit.”
Professional Foster Parenting
We call our foster parents Parent Therapists because they play two important, but distinct, roles with youth in their care: Providing a caring and stable family environment, and working as part of a professional team to ensure the kids receive any help they need.
“Some of our parent therapists have previous experience as a foster parent, while others don’t,” said Pinchuk.
A Parent Therapist should have a related educational background or work experience, and there are particular skills we look for. For example, a Parent Therapist must be able to stick to a treatment plan and work with a child to get from Point A to Point B.
“During the information session we’ll review the support we offer, training opportunities, and the compensation that professional parents receive.”
What To Expect
We know this lifestyle isn’t for everyone. Our Parent Therapists are people who want to give back and appreciate the professional role they fill in our model of care.
Information sessions like this one are a chance for you to learn about our specialized approach to foster care and whether it’s a good fit for you and your lifestyle.
“People often want to know how many clients they might have, or whether it will impact your ability to work outside the home,” Pinchuk noted. “Those interested in being a Parent Therapist want a clear sense of the impact it will have on their life. This is an open opportunity to find out.”
You’ll learn about the kids and teens who come to QCH for care, and the challenges they often face like developmental or mental health issues. Part of our mission is to help them reach their highest potential, and as a Parent Therapist you will be critical to that success.
You’ll also learn what it’s like to be a Parent Therapist from people who have been in that position. Two of our long-time parents, Shannon Banks and Kim Cross, recently discussed some of the lessons they’ve learned on our blog.
Join us!
Becoming a Parent Therapist is a challenging and rewarding career choice, and we’re excited to share our vision with you. To reserve your spot, please complete this online contact form (we’ll get back to you within 24 hours) or call Cara directly at 613-968-8569 ext. 305.