The Intensive Family-Based Services (IFBS) Program helps families take control of their lives and function more effectively. The program’s goal is to keep families together and avoid placement of children outside their home.

How the program works

An IFBS counselor meets with a family in their home for two hours or more each week for up to six months. During the first few sessions, the counselor explains how the program works and identifies the family’s strengths and concerns. Problems are addressed and family counseling and support is provided during subsequent sessions.

• Build parenting and communication skills
• Understand their children’s needs and learn how to nurture their healthy development
• Deal with struggles around issues such as fighting, discipline, school and bed times
• Find resources for housing, heat, food, clothing, medical care and transportation
• Obtain job training, education, and access to public benefits
• Address concerns about substance abuse or family violence
• Cope with a crisis
• Identify their goals and find ways to achieve those goals
• Learn how to become self-sufficient

How families get involved in the program:

• Families may take the initiative by contacting Youth Services
• Someone who is helping a family (for example, a school counselor) or the Department of Children and Families may refer a family to the program

Program Costs

There is no charge for the program’s services.