Autumn Defore
Council Bluffs,US
Summary
Compassionate Youth Support Specialist with diverse experience in providing individual and group support to youths dealing with a variety of challenges. Strengths include crisis management, behavior modification strategies, and case documentation. Have made significant impact on youth engagement and participation in previous roles through development of innovative outreach programs and initiatives.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Youth Support Specialist
Children's Square
Council Bluffs, IA
02.2025 - Current
- Utilized evidence-based interventions to assist youth with behavior management.
- Created a safe environment for all individuals involved in the program through active listening techniques.
- Implemented positive reinforcement strategies for youth to promote pro-social behaviors.
- Maintained accurate records of case notes and progress reports as required by state regulations.
- Developed supportive relationships with at risk youth by providing positive role modeling.
Family Case Worker
Family Access Center
Council Bluffs, IA
04.2020 - 05.2021
- Created detailed written reports summarizing assessments and plans for court hearings or other proceedings.
- Provided individual, family, and group counseling to clients in accordance with ethical standards.
- Provided crisis intervention when needed to de-escalate potentially volatile situations while maintaining a safe environment for all involved parties.
- Provided social workers with pertinent information gathered during applicant interviews.
Youth Support Worker
Childrens Square
Council Bluffs, IA
10.2010 - 09.2013
- Facilitated workshops for youth on topics such as healthy relationships, substance use and mental health awareness.
- Provided support to youth in crisis situations, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
- Responded promptly to any emergencies involving participants while adhering to safety protocols established by the organization.
- Promoted self-advocacy among program participants by teaching them how to advocate for themselves effectively.
Education
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Behavioral Science
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE, USSkills
- Social skills training
- Mental health support
- Life skills training
- Problem-solving abilities
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Documentation skills
- Trauma-informed care
- Behavioral management
- Evidence-based interventions
- Crisis intervention
Certification
- CPR First Aid
- CPI
- Child Behavior and Brain Development
- Crisis Intervention and De-Escalation with Families and Youth
- How Trauma impacts behavior
- Intervening at the stage not the age
- Practicing Cultural Humility with Children and Family in Crisis
- Practicing Cultural Humility with LGBTQ Populations
- Safety, Comfort, and Consent: Crisis work with LGBTQ Clients
- Suicide risk Screening and safety planning
- Secondary Traumatic Stress.... What is it
- How to include Families- Effective Models
- Trauma Screening and Assessment Measures for child welfare
- Organizational Secondary Traumatic Stress
References
References available upon request
Timeline
Lead Youth Support Specialist
Children's Square
02.2025 - Current
Family Case Worker
Family Access Center
04.2020 - 05.2021
Youth Support Worker
Childrens Square
10.2010 - 09.2013
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Behavioral Science
Bellevue University