Alana Buchenot

Implemented evidence-based therapeutic interventions for clients struggling with mental health challenges or behavioral concerns.

Provided crisis intervention services for clients experiencing acute mental health or substance abuse issues.

Educated families on available community resources, connecting them with essential services such as housing assistance, financial aid, or healthcare providers.

Improved client well-being by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing tailored intervention plans.

Spearheaded the establishment and growth of Protect Lake County, a county-wide threat assessment team, serving as the sole ambassador responsible for program recruitment and community engagement.

Cultivated and maintained robust collaborative relationships with critical community partners, including mental health agencies, law enforcement departments, veteran services organizations, school districts, and the State's Attorney's Office.

Developed and delivered specialized training to Lake County law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, school administrators, and Lake County Sheriff John Idleburg on the implementation and efficacy of community support teams in mitigating targeted violence.

Assisted in the development and implementation of emergency preparedness plans, policies, and procedures, collaborating with various departments to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Coordinated and facilitated internal and external meetings, including preparing agendas, recording minutes, tracking action items, and ensuring timely follow-up, contributing to efficient decision-making processes.

Handled confidential and sensitive information with discretion and tact.

Collaborated effectively with the Lake County Sheriff's Deputies and Police Agencies as part of a mobile response team to resolve crises, often preventing situations from becoming life-threatening or escalating to detainable offenses.

Delivered direct crisis intervention, including de-escalation and stabilization techniques, to community members and their families experiencing mental health or substance abuse crises.

Conducted comprehensive follow-up for individuals in crisis, providing critical resources and support to promote stability and reduce recidivism.

Provided critical mental health first aid training to over 150 soldiers as a Master Resiliency Trainer Assistant, enhancing unit cohesion and individual well-being.

Served as an Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) certified NCO, actively engaging in suicide prevention efforts and providing immediate support to at-risk individuals.

Collaborated effectively with Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs) and Victim Advocates to ensure comprehensive support and resource navigation for individuals in crisis.