Functional Family Specialist -Mason City

Four Oaks Family & Children Services • Mason City, IA

7d

About The Position

Four Oaks is seeking a Functional Family Specialist to serve families throughout Iowa’s 2nd Judicial District. The specialist uses the Functional Family Therapy (FFT) model to support families with adolescents ages 10–18, helping them improve communication, strengthen relationships, address challenges, and work toward lasting positive change. Services are primarily home-based, with at least one hour of family therapy provided each week. The role manages approximately 10–15 families over an average service period of 8–26 weeks and requires flexibility to meet families according to their availability. The specialist also coordinates with schools, healthcare providers, mental health professionals, referring workers, and community partners. Four Oaks describes the position as meaningful, flexible, and supported by a collaborative team, with opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to diversity and equal opportunity.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, social work, human services, criminal justice, or a related field.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to remain patient, professional, and supportive in challenging situations.
• Organization, self-motivation, and comfort managing multiple cases.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with a team.
• Flexibility and willingness to meet with families based on their availability.
• Commitment to helping families develop long-term skills for success.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in family therapy or youth services is preferred but not required.
• Passion for working with adolescents and families.
• Enjoyment of building meaningful relationships and helping others overcome challenges.

Responsibilities

• Provide at least one hour of home-based family therapy each week.
• Use the Functional Family Therapy model to help families address challenges, improve communication, and develop healthier interactions.
• Assess family dynamics, identify areas of need, and develop interventions based on individualized treatment plans.
• Monitor treatment goals, evaluate outcomes, and adjust interventions to support family progress.
• Manage a caseload of approximately 10–15 families, providing services over an average period of 8–26 weeks.
• Maintain a flexible schedule to accommodate family availability and participation.
• Assist with community resource planning, case coordination, and permanency planning.
• Collaborate with schools, healthcare providers, mental health professionals, referring workers, and community partners.
• Participate in discharge planning, case documentation, and ongoing evaluation of family progress.

Benefits

• Work-life balance and flexibility to support professional and personal priorities.
• Professional growth opportunities to develop skills and advance a career.
• Supportive, collaborative team culture.
• Meaningful work directly impacting adolescents and families.
• Inclusive workplace that values diversity, equal opportunity, and fair treatment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time