Waukesha County Health and Human Services (WCDHHS) offers community-based services to adolescents who have been placed on supervision by the Juvenile Court, or who are at risk of coming to the court’s attention. Services are provided to adolescents and their families where severe family conflicts, uncontrollability, substance abuse, delinquency, or serious emotional disturbance may be present. The Adolescent and Family Division's varied and diverse services share a philosophical commitment to the dignity of the individual, and a belief that individuals and families can, with proper assistance, positively respond to the challenges that life’s problems and crises present. Adolescent and Family social workers believe in a strength-based and least restrictive approach to working with families.

The goal of the Adolescent and Family Division is to keep families together and work through challenging circumstances. Social workers strive to provide culturally competent services and connections to community resources. Every attempt is made to maintain family unity by using a community-based services model, which may include intensive family treatment, educational support, and other provided and purchased services. If in-home services are not appropriate, the Division also facilitates, coordinates and monitors court-ordered foster care, group home, and residential care center placements, as well as secure correctional placements. Secure and non-secure detention services are also provided for the temporary 24-hour care and supervision of juveniles, aged 12 to 17 years, who have been charged with delinquent acts, or who may be in need of protection and services.

The Adolescent and Family Division employees are Wisconsin state licensed social workers. The minimum requirement for social workers is a bachelor’s degree in social work or related field. Many social workers utilize skills gained with advanced degrees. Social workers utilize motivational interviewing, counseling, case management and trauma-informed care strategies in working with youth and families. Staff are required to complete continuing education credits in order to maintain their social work license and to remain current in new treatment modalities. They are trained in evidence-based strategies to meet the needs of the family and youth. Social workers conduct home visits, school visits, office visits, and monitor Juvenile Court orders. They act as advocates for youth and families in areas such as the community, schools, and court.