How Do I Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent?
Phone Treatment Homes at 501.372.5039. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Following your initial inquiry and screening, prospective foster parents are invited to attend Treatment Homes’ New Parent Training classes entitled: Foster Pride/Adopt Pride.
During this 10-week pre-service training period, prospective foster parents will determine if indeed therapeutic foster parenting is for them, and what kind of children the family can best work with and enjoy.
Subsequent to completion of the training and approval of your home, your name will be placed on the vacancy list. Before accepting a child into your home it is recommended that you first provide Respite Care for a child over a weekend or a few days, in order to better understand what is being asked of you and your family.
The Rewards of Therapeutic Foster Parenting
Most foster parents will tell you there are many benefits:
- A sense of accomplishment
- The chance to help children feel good about themselves
- Pride in doing important and meaningful work
- Challenging experiences
- Opportunity to meet and work with new people
- A chance to use special talents and knowledge, and to learn
- And Most Important: You can make a lifetime of difference in a child’s life
Basic Requirements for Therapeutic Foster Parents
- Applicants must be at least 21, and not more than 65.
- In a two-parent home, each adult shall be a joint applicant.
- Couples Married 3 or More Years (some single-parent applications are accepted)
- High school education minimum (or equivalent)
- Flexible schedule required of at least one parent
- A foster care worker will conduct a home safety assessment; references, a security check, and a health certificate are also required.