Police BadgeSocial Worker

The position of Police Social Worker has been with the Wilmette Police Department since 1970. The Social Worker offers assessment, referral and short term counseling services to residents of Wilmette who are referred by the Police. Depending on the individual needs, degree of problem and appropriateness of treatment; the Social Worker will either facilitate the referral to other agencies or provide counseling services at the Department.

Typically, the treatment modality will either be individual therapy, family therapy or marital therapy. The Police Social Worker is available for residents to call to obtain resource or referral information.The Police Social Worker also assists victims and family members during crisis such as suicide, domestic violence and child abuse. In addition, the Social Worker will respond to geriatric concerns by helping to link the elderly residents with the appropriate services. In cases of domestic violence, assistance is provided to the victims to obtain Order of Protection from the court system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) What are the fees for services?

Counseling and advocacy services are free for Wilmette residents.

2) What should I know about the Police Social Worker's training background?

The Social Worker holds a Master degree in Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received post-graduate training in family and couple therapy from the Family Institute at Northwestern University.

3) Since counseling is being provided at the Police Department, do I have to worry about confidentiality?

Confidentiality is strictly enforced. Counseling reports are kept entirely separate from Police reports.

4) What is the availability of the counseling services?

Daytime appointments are available Monday through Friday. Evening appointments are available one evening a week.

5) What kind of issues do people request help with?

Issues such as domestic violence, marital conflicts, parent-child problems, stress related issues and substance abuse issues etc.