ANN J. HERRERA
Ankeny,Iowa
Summary
Experienced Social Work Consultant with 16 years in serving disadvantaged youth and adults, including homeless and special-needs populations. Developed and implemented strategic interventions tailored to individual needs, enhancing client outcomes and organizational efficiency. Strong understanding of complex social issues and commitment to fostering relationships with stakeholders.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Clinical Therapist
Edison Eating Disorder and Mental Health Services
West Des Moines, Iowa
05.2024 - Current
- Delivered individual therapy sessions for clients with eating disorders and mental health issues, facilitating personal growth and resilience.
- Incorporated different treatment methodologies and evidence-based practices to meet clients' specific needs.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive client care.
- Led group therapy sessions to enhance support networks and promote connection among clients.
- Advised patients on medication compliance and monitored changes in behavior or emotional state due to medications prescribed by psychiatrists or primary care physicians.
- Developed and presented educational and outreach programs to social service agencies, businesses, and public audiences, raising awareness of mental health issues.
School Social Worker
Heartland Area Education Agency
Ankeny, Iowa
08.2019 - Current
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to identify and address students' academic and social-emotional needs through direct observation, review of previous records and interviews with students, parents, teachers, and outside professionals
- Consulted and trained teachers on trauma-informed practices to enhance support for students affected by adverse life events
- Provide individualized assessment to a diverse population of learners and determine eligibility for special education services
- Collaborated with school administrators, teachers, and special education staff to develop special education goals and effective instructional strategies and accommodations
- Supported implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with special needs, ensuring delivery of appropriate accommodations and services
- Delivered professional development on behavior management to special education paraprofessionals through group training sessions and individual classroom support.
District Social Worker
Saydel School District
Des Moines, Iowa
08.2017 - 07.2019
- Delivered crisis intervention services during emergencies, aiding students in processing traumatic events and enhancing their emotional well-being
- Coordinated with school staff to identify students with mental health concerns and connect them to external resources and services, fostering a supportive environment
- Conducted home visits to assess social and emotional needs of Pre K - 12th grade students, enhancing family engagement and support
- Collaborated with the school's special education team to develop accommodations and modifications for students with diverse learning needs, supporting their academic success
School Social Worker
Cherry Creek School District
Aurora, Colorado
08.2014 - 07.2017
- Delivered social work support, including short-term counseling, community resource planning, and crisis intervention across two elementary schools, enhancing student well-being.
- Collaborated with teachers and parents to develop personalized intervention plans (general education plans, 504 plan and special education plans) for students with behavioral issues
- Led a support group for new students navigating school transitions, offering a safe space for expression and equipping them with coping strategies.
- Developed and implemented a school-wide anti-bullying program, teaching classroom lessons for Kindergarten - 5th grade students to foster a safe school environment.
Day Treatment Therapist
Aurora Mental Health Center
Aurora, Colorado
10.2013 - 07.2014
- Conducted assessments and developed targeted treatment plans addressing student needs, utilizing evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy
- Provided individual and group counseling sessions for students in 2nd to 8th grade, fostering emotional and social development
- Collected and analyzed data to monitor student progress, adjusting treatment plans to ensure effective support and outcomes
Clinical Case Manager
Family Systems/ Iowa City Schools
Iowa City, Iowa
03.2011 - 06.2013
- Conducted comprehensive psychosocial assessments of clients to determine their needs and eligibility for services.
- Managed comprehensive case assessments to address student behavioral and emotional needs.
- Coordinated support services among families, schools, and community agencies to enhance client outcomes.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure cohesive care delivery.
- Trained staff on trauma-informed practices and crisis intervention techniques to improve client care.
- Maintained accurate records of client information in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
Hospital Social Worker
St. Lukes Hospital
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
10.2010 - 06.2013
- Coordinated patient services and referrals in collaboration with healthcare teams to enhance patient care.
- Communicated effectively with referral sources concerning client progress and status updates in order to ensure continuity of care upon discharge from the facility.
- Advocated for patients' rights and needs within healthcare settings to ensure equitable treatment.
- Attended court hearings and medical reviews as a representative for clients.
- Monitored and adjusted patient care plans to ensure adherence to treatment protocols and effective service delivery.
- Participated in research projects focused on improving patient outcomes.
- Maintained accurate documentation of all client interactions, treatments, appointments. according to established policies and procedures.
Education
Masters of Social Work -
St. Ambrose University
Davenport, Iowa05-2010
Bachelor of Science - Child, Adult and Family Services
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa05-2008
Skills
- Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations in the educational context
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Evidence-based practices
- Conflict resolution
- Educational outreach
- Effective communication
- Data analysis
- Professional development
- Clinical documentation
- Mental health diagnosis
- Assertiveness training
- Teamwork
- Multitasking Abilities
- Analytical skills
- Ability to develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
- Experience in multidisciplinary team collaboration
- Proficiency in maintaining confidential student records
Certification
- Licensed Social Worker (LMSW), IA
- Iowa School Social Work Certification
Timeline
Clinical Therapist
Edison Eating Disorder and Mental Health Services
05.2024 - Current
School Social Worker
Heartland Area Education Agency
08.2019 - Current
District Social Worker
Saydel School District
08.2017 - 07.2019
School Social Worker
Cherry Creek School District
08.2014 - 07.2017
Day Treatment Therapist
Aurora Mental Health Center
10.2013 - 07.2014
Clinical Case Manager
Family Systems/ Iowa City Schools
03.2011 - 06.2013
Hospital Social Worker
St. Lukes Hospital
10.2010 - 06.2013
Masters of Social Work -
St. Ambrose University
Bachelor of Science - Child, Adult and Family Services
Iowa State University