Hope Rising Clinic, A Model for Families Affected by Prenatal Substance Exposure (PSE)
Hope Rising Clinic (HRC) and Casey Family Programs address the developmental and behavioral impacts of prenatal substance exposure (PSE), which is significantly overrepresented in the child welfare system. HRC’s trauma‑informed, interdisciplinary model—integrating occupational therapy, behavioral health, caregiver coaching, and advocacy—supports for all caregivers, including foster, kinship, adoptive, and those navigating recovery or reunification. A core caregiver program builds understanding of brain‑based differences and reduces stigma that can lead to punitive responses or placement instability. Early evidence shows increased caregiver confidence, improved relationships, and more effective case planning as providers shift from a behaviorist to a neurobehavioral model. Cross‑system collaboration strengthens alignment and expands access to PSE‑informed strategies, underscoring the need for providers statewide to build the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver PSE‑informed care.