Abigail Cotton
Dandridge,TN
Summary
I am a compassionate and dedicated Human Services professional driven by a genuine passion for supporting children and families through challenging circumstances. I believe in meeting people where they are, creating a safe and respectful space where individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow.
Through my experience in early childhood education and community-based services, I have developed strong skills in crisis de-escalation, family communication, and resource coordination. I take pride in building trusting relationships, advocating for client needs, and helping families access the tools and support systems necessary for long-term stability.
My goal is to continue growing in the field of social work while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.
Overview
1
1
Certification
Work History
Daycare Teacher
Dandridge Christian Learning
Dandridge, TN
- Provided direct support to children's social-emotional development using trauma-informed care practices.
- Identified behavioral and developmental concerns and communicated effectively with families to support early intervention.
- De-escalated challenging situations, promoting emotional regulation and safe environments.
- Documented behavioral patterns and progress to support consistent care planning.
- Collaborated with families to strengthen communication and reinforce stability between home and school environments.
Daycare Teacher
ABC Dayschool
Jefferson City, TN
- Supported developmental and behavioral goals through individualized care strategies.
- Implemented structured routines that reduced behavioral incidents and improved classroom stability.
- Modeled and reinforced positive coping and communication skills among children.
- Maintained ongoing communication with caregivers regarding progress and concerns.
- Partnered with staff to ensure consistency in behavioral expectations and developmental support.
Family Nanny
Knoxville, TN
- Delivered individualized, family-centered care supporting emotional and behavioral development.
- Established structured routines that promoted stability, independence, and positive behavior.
- Addressed conflict and behavioral challenges using calm, solution-focused approaches.
- Supported family systems by improving organization, communication, and daily functioning.
- Encouraged developmental growth through structured, engaging activities.
Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD)
- Assisted with case management tasks including maintaining accurate client records and service documentation.
- Supported coordination of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Built rapport with clients and families while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
- Observed and contributed to interdisciplinary team efforts focused on person-centered care planning.
ETHRA (East Tennessee Human Resource Agency)
- Connected individuals and families to critical services including housing, transportation, and financial assistance.
- Conducted client intake and eligibility processing in compliance with program guidelines.
- Maintained accurate documentation to support service delivery and reporting requirements.
- Collaborated with caseworkers to advocate for equitable access to community resources.
Receptionist Intern
WestCare Tennessee
- Served as initial point of contact for clients seeking behavioral health and support services.
- Managed confidential client records and scheduling in compliance with privacy standards.
- Supported intake processes and ensured a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment.
- Demonstrated strong crisis-awareness and professionalism in high-need situations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Human Services, Social Work
East Tennessee State University
Associate of Science - General Studies
Walters State Community College
Psychology Coursework
Johnson University
Skills
- Case Management Support
- Client Advocacy
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Crisis Intervention
- Resource Coordination
- Child & Family Services
- Documentation & Compliance
- Behavioral Support
- Conflict Resolution
- Community Outreach
- Cultural Competency
- Client Engagement
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Internship experience
Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD)
- Assisted with case management tasks including maintaining accurate client records and service documentation.
- Supported coordination of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Built rapport with clients and families while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
- Observed and contributed to interdisciplinary team efforts focused on person-centered care planning.
ETHRA (East Tennessee Human Resource Agency)
- Connected individuals and families to critical services
- Conducted client intake and eligibility processing in compliance with program guidelines.
- Maintained accurate documentation to support service delivery and reporting requirements.
- Collaborated with ETHRA to advocate for equitable access to community resources.
WestCare Tennessee — Receptionist Intern
- Served as initial point of contact for clients seeking behavioral health and support services.
- Managed confidential client records and scheduling in compliance with privacy standards.
- Supported intake processes and ensured a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment.
- Demonstrated strong crisis-awareness and professionalism in high-need situations.
Accomplishments
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Dean's List • I AM Third Award • Latin Honor Award
A/B Honor Roll • Art & Coach Awards
Certification
BLS/CPR Certified
Health & Safety Training
Family Engagement Training
DDA Training
Medicare/Medicaid Specialist
Timeline
Daycare Teacher
ABC Dayschool
Family Nanny
Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD)
Associate of Science - General Studies
Walters State Community College
Psychology Coursework
Johnson University
Daycare Teacher
Dandridge Christian Learning
ETHRA (East Tennessee Human Resource Agency)
Receptionist Intern
WestCare Tennessee
Bachelor of Science - Human Services, Social Work
East Tennessee State University