Identifying the Roles and Responsibilities of Addiction Studies Interns in a Child Welfare Agency

ABSTRACT

Alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselors often must work collaboratively with other social service agencies, one of which is Child Protective Services (CPS). This study describes a pilot program developed to address AOD/CPS collaborative work, along with the challenges in providing collaborative work. Five AOD Studies interns were placed at a county CPS agency as substance abuse specialists for one year. Qualitative and quantitative data were gathered through monthly focus group meetings and chart abstractions. Results indicate that the interns played multiple roles and provided services beyond typical AOD work. Implications include skill and content areas for AOD Studies curriculum.

KEYWORDS:

• Interns
• addiction studies
• children
• roles