“Offers a refreshingly straightforward and accessible approach to the complexities of working with children and families involved in foster care. The case examples woven throughout the book are particularly effective, bringing concepts to life and helping readers connect theory to real-world practice. Practical lessons learned and Key Points at the end of each chapter further enhance the book's utility. This is an excellent text for undergraduates and graduate students in social work, counseling, and psychology; child protective services workers; and early-career practitioners. I would readily use it in Clinical Practice and Human Behavior in the Social Environment courses to help students develop the knowledge, critical thinking, and practical skills needed for effective child welfare practice.”

—Viola Vaughan-Eden, PhD, MSW, MJ, LCSW, Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work, Norfolk State University


“A 'must-read' for clinicians and trainees, and for instructors teaching advanced undergraduate- and graduate-level courses in Family Systems, Crisis Intervention, Child Welfare, and Trauma-Informed Care. This book offers a rare and comprehensive walkthrough of the complex processes that may unfold when a child enters the foster care system. Through thoughtful consideration of the clinical, relational, cultural, and systemic complexities of working with this population, along with engaging case examples and discussion prompts, Zilberstein and Delaney bridge the gap between conceptual knowledge and real-world practice. The authors guide readers through core areas of assessment, practical and ethical considerations, culturally responsive interventions, and the challenges of providing care within systems in which children and families may be navigating trauma, disrupted relationships, placement transitions, reunification, and permanency decisions. This book is an important contribution to the clinical and child welfare literatures and a valuable resource for students preparing to work with children and families touched by the foster care system.”

—Courtney D. Cabell, PsyD, Doctoral Core Faculty, Michigan School of Psychology