Courtney Litzinger - Residential Specialist

Overview

3

years of professional experience

1

Certification

Summary

Compassionate and highly skilled Certified Peer Supporter and Family Certified Peer Supporter with dual licensure in Ohio. Proven ability to leverage lived experience to provide empathetic guidance, advocate for individuals and families navigating behavioral health challenges, and facilitate recovery-oriented services. Eager to contribute expertise in empowering peers and fostering resilience within a supportive community environment.

Work History

Residential Specialist

St. Vincent De Paul Haven

Newark, OH

03.2023 - 12.2025

Provided individualized support to residents, fostering a safe and nurturing environment.
Managed operations and provided support within a 50-bed men's facility.
Assisted in developing personalized care plans based on resident needs and goals.
Coordinated activities and programs to promote community engagement among residents.
Monitored resident progress, documenting changes and communicating updates to the team.
Implemented best practices for crisis intervention, ensuring timely responses to emergencies.
Trained new staff on policies, procedures, and effective engagement techniques with residents.
Advocated for residents' needs, connecting them with external resources and support services.
Upheld confidentiality standards when handling sensitive resident information or discussing private matters internally among colleagues or with outside partners/providers necessary to overall care provision efforts.
Managed crisis situations effectively with swift response times, minimizing risk factors for both individuals involved as well as other community members present at the time of the event.
Assisted residents in achieving personal goals with customized support plans and regular progress reviews.
Cultivated strong relationships with local resources, connecting residents to essential services within the community as needed.

Education

Associate of Science - Behavioral Sciences

University of New Hampshire

NH

06.2027

High School Diploma - General Studies

Heath High School

Heath, OH

06.2002

Skills

Active Listening & Empathy: Being able to truly hear and understand someone's experience, and relating through my own lived experience, is fundamental

Motivational Interviewing: Helping people find their own reasons for change and empowering them to take steps forward

Crisis Intervention: Knowing how to respond calmly and effectively when someone is in distress, and connecting them to immediate support

Recovery Planning & Goal Setting: Collaborating with individuals to create personalized roadmaps for their wellness and recovery

Resource Navigation & Advocacy: Knowing about and helping others access community resources, services, and support systems, and advocating on their behalf

Group Facilitation: Leading and managing support groups where peers can share and learn from each other in a safe, structured environment

Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting how different cultural backgrounds, identities, and experiences shape a person's recovery journey

Communication Skills: Clear, compassionate, and effective communication, both verbal and written, for working with individuals, families, and treatment teams

Confidentiality & Ethics: Adhering to professional and ethical guidelines, especially regarding privacy and boundaries

Trauma-Informed Care: Approaching support with an understanding of how trauma can impact an individual's life and recovery