Family Group Decision Making invites families and others to come together when a situation occurs that threatens family unity. A Family Group Decision Making conference is facilitated to come up with a plan to help solve family problems. A conference can include anyone the family wants; including extended family, trusted friends, community members, other supports, and service providers. A typical conference lasts between 2-3 hours.
A Family Group Decision Making Coordinator assists the family in understanding the purpose of the conference, developing an invitation list, and selecting a conference site. The coordinator also facilitates the conference, but the family develops the plan.
Family Group Decision Making is available in Erie and Mercer Counties.
What Happens at the Family Group Decision Making Conference?
- Information Sharing: The participants discuss the family's strengths and concerns.
- Family Private Time: The family meets in private to deliberate, review relevant information and create a plan. The family shares a meal while meeting.
- Plan Preservation and Acceptance: The family and participants come together again to present and review the family plan.
- Action: The family plan is put into action.
Does my family qualify for Family Group Decision Making?
Referrals to Family Group Decision Making must be made by:
- Erie County Office of Children and Youth (OCY)
- Erie County Juvenile Probation Office (JPO)
- Mercer County Children and Youth Services (CYS)
To learn more about Family Group Decision Making at Family Services of NW PA, check out the video below.
