Chapin Hall

The Issue 

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered approach that empowers families to take an active role in case planning to improve engagement and outcomes in child welfare services. Under the Family First Prevention Services Act (Family First), the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has new funding to support families in participating in evidence-based prevention programs. These programs help strengthen parenting skills and address mental health and substance use challenges. 

However, many families face barriers to engaging in voluntary services, including distrust of child welfare agencies, logistical difficulties, and feeling disconnected from services offered. Even those who begin services often do not complete them, limiting their ability to benefit from the available support. Illinois is implementing MI as a core casework practice to address these barriers and improve family engagement. 

The Evidence 

Originally developed for counseling individuals with substance use disorders, MI has since been applied across multiple settings to support client-driven behavioral change. 

Studies indicate MI is most effective when integrated with other interventions, such as parenting programs or substance use prevention services. Illinois has incorporated MI into its Family First Prevention Plan as a foundational casework approach to enhance family engagement and service participation. 

The Way Forward 

This policy brief outlines key implementation insights and recommendations for strengthening MI as a standard casework practice in Illinois child welfare services: 

• Expanding MI training and support for caseworkers. DCFS has trained thousands of frontline staff in MI and is integrating MI coaching and practice fidelity monitoring to ensure consistent application. 

• Enhancing data tracking and evaluation. Illinois has developed a system to document MI use in case contacts, allowing for continuous quality improvement and federal reimbursement through Family First. 

• Monitoring and improving equity in implementation. Data show that MI is being used across diverse communities. DCFS will continue to analyze engagement trends to ensure equitable access to effective casework practices. 

By embedding MI in its child welfare practice, Illinois aims to build stronger partnerships with families, improve service engagement, and ultimately enhance child and family well-being. 

For more information about Chapin Hall’s work on strategic efforts in Illinois child welfare, see this project page.

Read the brief