Residential Case Manager

Description:

Function:

The mission of Lydia Home Association is to care for children and strengthen families. The residential program at Lydia Home Association serves youth ages 6-17, who are involved with the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS). The youth reside at Lydia Home and are provided with a structured living environment, mental health treatment, wrap around services, and case management support.

Job Description:

The Residential Case Manager is responsible for case coordination, engaging the client’s support network, and advocating on the youth’s behalf within the context of consultations, court, staffings, and Administrative Case Reviews. The Residential Case Manager must complete case related documentation and ensure they maintain communication with parties internal and external to the agency. The Residential Case Manager guides the transition process as the child navigates through residential treatment to their next placement setting.

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 9-5 PM

Requirements:

Position Summary
Provides therapeutically driven, family-centered case management and discharge planning services in a residential treatment setting. Supports Lydia Home’s mission and child welfare goals of safety, permanency, and well-being.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (must meet Mental Health Professional qualifications)
• Per DCFS Rule 132: Bachelor’s in human services field OR non-human services degree with 2 years supervised clinical experience in a mental health setting
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills
• Proficient with technology and documentation systems
• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance (if driving is required)
• Commitment to culturally responsive, family-centered care

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate intake, preplacement, and discharge planning
• Engage families and support systems in treatment and permanency planning
• Facilitate visitation and maintain consistent family contact
• Collaborate with DCFS, courts, schools, and community providers
• Develop and implement transition and aftercare plans
• Participate in case staffings, court hearings, and Child & Family Team meetings
• Complete Medicaid-compliant documentation and required reports in a timely manner
• Serve as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team (Case Manager, Therapist, Unit Supervisor)
• Support youth through trauma-informed, strengths-based interventions
• Coordinate hospitalizations and discharge transitions as needed
• Ensure compliance with DCFS, COA, Family First, Medicaid, and agency standards