Meet the Family Focus Team
Dedicated. Compassionate. Rooted in Community.
At Family Focus, our team is the heart of everything we do. Each member is deeply committed to empowering families, supporting fathers, and strengthening the bonds that help communities thrive. With diverse backgrounds in social work, education, counseling, and community outreach, we work with one shared mission: to provide trusted, culturally responsive support services to families across Northern Indiana.
Whether we're helping parents navigate new responsibilities, guiding teens toward a brighter future, or advocating for stronger family connections, our team leads with empathy, respect, and a passion for making a difference.
We’re proud to serve you—and we’re here to help, every step of the way.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
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Lori English
OPERATIONS & BILLING MANAGER
Lori has been part of the Family Focus Team since 2011. With a background in Healthcare Administration from the University of Arkansas, she brings her passion for operational logistics to every task. As the Operations and Billing Manager, Lori oversees everything from facilities to finances—ensuring the agency runs smoothly across 12 counties.
She loves supporting the team behind the scenes, helping therapists and aides focus on the families they serve. Lori finds satisfaction in making a difference through strong systems and leadership. When not working, she enjoys traveling and cherishing time with her grandchildren.
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Diane Whickcar
ADMINISTRATIVE LIAISON
Diane joined Family Focus in 2023 and currently serves as the Administrative Liaison, helping referrals from the Indiana Department of Child Services reach the right team members. She is pursuing a Psychology degree from Indiana University and brings a strong sense of purpose to her work.
Having grown up in foster care, Diane is passionate about supporting children. She finds joy in her role, knowing it helps provide hope and care. Outside of work, she enjoys crafting, traveling, and spending time with her husband and son.
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Lauren Russell
QUALITY ASSURANCE SPECIALIST
Lauren has been with Family Focus since 2021 and holds a degree in Human Development & Family Studies from Purdue University. As the Quality Assurance Specialist, she ensures accurate client records and compliance with Indiana standards.
Her attention to detail supports the team’s mission and recognizes their hard work. Passionate about helping others, Lauren is driven by a desire to improve parent-child relationships. In her spare time, she enjoys coaching, home projects, and spending time with her daughter.
MANAGEMENT TEAM
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Jennifer Farley
CASE WORKER SUPERVISOR
Jennifer joined Family Focus in 2023 and currently serves as a Case Worker Supervisor and member of the Leadership Team. With degrees from Ivy Tech and Indiana University, she’s now pursuing her master’s in Social Work.
Jennifer is passionate about helping clients rebuild their lives and values second chances. Known for her warmth and energy, she lights up every room she enters. Outside of work, she enjoys riding ATVs with her family and connecting with friends.
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Lisa Sesniak
THERAPY SUPERVISOR
Lisa has been with Family Focus since 2012 and serves as a Therapy Supervisor and Leadership Team member. Her educational path includes degrees from the University of Illinois, Liberty University, and Concordia University.
Lisa thrives when helping children and families, and she believes in building bridges through positive thinking and connection. A proud grandmother, she enjoys spoiling her grandkids and spending quality time with family.
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Norma Kasinger
THERAPY SUPERVISOR
Norma joined Family Focus in 2023 and serves as a Therapy Supervisor and Leadership Team member. She holds degrees from Indiana Wesleyan and completed her Master's in Social Work in 2024.
After working in hospitals, Norma was inspired to become a therapist to help others navigate life's challenges. She's known for her encouragement and deep care. Outside work, she enjoys time with her family along Lake Michigan and cherishing moments with her
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Mary Jo Polos
CASE WORKER SUPERVISOR
Mary Jo has been with Family Focus since 1999 and holds a degree in Clinical Psychology from Purdue University. As a Case Worker Supervisor, she leads a team while continuing to manage her own caseload.
She found her calling in mental health through years of supporting friends and loved ones.
Passionate about the healing power of relationships, Mary Jo enjoys theatre, music, and being near the water with her daughter and family.
What Makes Us Different
Certified 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
Family Focus is a mission-driven organization—not profit-motivated. Every program is designed to be effective, accessible, and affordable for those who need it most.
Locally-Focused, Community-Based
We're proud to serve the families of Northwest Indiana directly in their homes and communities. Our team understands the unique challenges local families face and provides support that reflects that understanding.
Experienced, Compassionate Staff
Our instructors and caseworkers are trained professionals in child development, family systems, and trauma-informed care. Every class and service is delivered with empathy, cultural awareness, and a focus on real-life application.
Grow Your Career While Growing Stronger Families
Make your career matter. At Family Focus Inc, you’ll join a multidisciplinary team—therapists, caseworkers, parent aides, and support staff—united by one purpose: keeping Northwest Indiana families safe, stable, and thriving.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
Mission‑Driven Impact – See the direct results of your work in children’s smiles and parents’ success stories.
Collaborative Culture – Small, supportive teams with weekly case consults and open‑door leadership.
Professional Growth – CEUs and clinical supervision hours.
Work–Life Balance – Flexible scheduling options and competitive PTO to allow you to recharge and stay at your best.
Competitive Benefits – Medical, dental, vision, life, short and long-term disability options, retirement match, and mileage reimbursement for field staff.
Corporate Office
660 W Morthland Dr. Suite A
Valparaiso, IN 46385
Hours of Operation
Monday — Thursday
7:30am — 5:00pm
Friday
7:30am — 1:00pm
Contact Us
Call: 219-462-9200