Alicia Lyons
Detroit,US
Summary
Accomplished professional with over 20 years of experience in program leadership and operations management, strategically transitioning to high-level virtual assistance. Proven expertise in orchestrating complex administrative tasks, ensuring compliance, and managing communications, developed through the successful management of multi-million dollar programs and effective team leadership. Dedicated to leveraging this unique background to support leaders and organizations by driving operational excellence, streamlining workflows, and enhancing overall productivity. Employs a results-oriented approach that aligns every initiative with organizational goals while fostering a collaborative environment for sustained success.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Substance Abuse Counselor Supervisor
Star Center (OPMAT)
01.2025 - Current
- Manage clinical operations, ensuring high-quality care and regulatory compliance.
- Lead and evaluate a team of counselors, enhancing training and supervision.
- Implement data-driven evaluations, resulting in improved counseling effectiveness.
- Identify training needs, boosting team performance and compliance.
- Ensure adherence to federal and state regulations, maintaining operational standards.
Call Center Substance Abuse Specialist
Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network
01.2021 - 03.2025
- Addressed needs of various populations, including individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance abuse disorders.
- Conducted clinical screening to determine the level of care for those in need of substance abuse and mental health services.
- Employed managed care concepts and processes by analyzing specific utilization plans and implementing solutions.
Program Manager
Cherry Health’s - CTC-East Reentry Program
02.2023 - 01.2025
- Oversaw daily operations of a 24-hour, 150-bed reentry facility, ensuring compliance with Bureau of Prisons (BOP) standards.
- Led a team in monitoring residents and home confinement participants via GPS tracking systems.
- Proactively identified risks and implemented safety contingency plans.
- Coordinated repairs, vendor contracts, and resource allocation to uphold a secure and functional environment.
- Implemented a comprehensive training program for staff, boosting team efficiency and improving resident engagement through targeted support.
- Analyzed incident reports to identify trends, which led to the development of proactive measures, reducing safety incidents and enhancing resident well-being.
Contracted (Temp) Program Analyst
City of Detroit, Housing and Revitalization Department
09.2021 - 04.2022
- Evaluated HUD program effectiveness, enhancing policy alignment and strategic objectives.
- Demonstrated agency program expertise, driving improved mission understanding and policy execution.
- Managed financial planning, contributing to long-term program goal achievement and fiscal responsibility.
Substance Use Specialist
Wellplace Access Center
10.2019 - 01.2021
- Conducted intake interviews, enhancing client engagement and support strategies.
- Led individual and group counseling sessions, fostering a collaborative recovery environment.
- Implemented motivational techniques, achieving measurable improvements in client behavior.
- Supported individuals with substance issues, contributing to significant positive changes.
- Developed behavior modification plans, resulting in effective client progress.
Executive Director
Help USA, Franklin Intake and Assessment Women's Shelter
01.2017 - 10.2019
- Directed daily operations of 200-bed shelter, aiding 500+ women monthly.
- Managed 86 professionals across four departments, enhancing team efficiency.
- Developed and implemented service initiatives, achieving strategic goals.
- Led strategic planning, resulting in improved service delivery.
- Facilitated program development, fostering community support.
Program Director
SUS/Palladia Inc.
11.2007 - 12.2016
- Supervised management staff across multiple shelters, residential facilities, and centers.
- Developed and updated strategic short- and long-term goals by analyzing program data and social service trends.
- Enhanced team performance through staff training, mentoring, and quality assurance initiatives.
Education
Master of Public Administration - Pi Alpha
Metropolitan College of New York
New York01.2007
Bachelor of Professional Studies - Cum Laude
Metropolitan College of New York
New York01.2006
Skills
- Program and project management
- Strategic planning and analysis
- Team building and leadership
- Case management and counseling
- Effective crisis management
- Documentation oversight
- Budget oversight
- Proficient in various software applications
- Quality assurance and improvement
- Data entry and management
- Research and evaluation skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
Certification
- Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), 2022
- Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC), 1999
Timeline
Substance Abuse Counselor Supervisor
Star Center (OPMAT)
01.2025 - Current
Program Manager
Cherry Health’s - CTC-East Reentry Program
02.2023 - 01.2025
Contracted (Temp) Program Analyst
City of Detroit, Housing and Revitalization Department
09.2021 - 04.2022
Call Center Substance Abuse Specialist
Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network
01.2021 - 03.2025
Substance Use Specialist
Wellplace Access Center
10.2019 - 01.2021
Executive Director
Help USA, Franklin Intake and Assessment Women's Shelter
01.2017 - 10.2019
Program Director
SUS/Palladia Inc.
11.2007 - 12.2016
Bachelor of Professional Studies - Cum Laude
Metropolitan College of New York
Master of Public Administration - Pi Alpha
Metropolitan College of New York
Professional Affiliation
Alumni Member - SAMSHA Women's Addiction Services Leadership Institute (WASLI), 2009