Results-driven Child and Family Services Specialist with expertise in crisis management and case coordination. Strengthens family outcomes and ensures compliance with court directives through effective stakeholder engagement. Proven ability to enhance processes and workflows in fast-paced environments while maintaining high-quality standards. Possesses strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, thriving under pressure and mastering new challenges.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Specialist
State Of Nebraska - Department Of Health And Human Services
Bellevue, NE
01.2025 - Current
Coordinate interactions between Child and Family Service field staff and Nebraska Medicaid Organizations.
Strengthened partnerships between Child and Family Service Workers and Developmental Disability Service Coordinators for Nebraska State Wards to facilitate access to disability services and improve care.
Oversaw statewide child advocacy contracts, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards.
Crisis Counselor
Boys Town National Hotline
Boys Town, NE
06.2021 - Current
Administer crisis counseling to individuals and families over the phone, focusing on immediate emotional and behavioral challenges.
Matched families with appropriate resources and provided parenting guidance to support their needs.
Maintained documentation and upheld confidentiality to ensure compliance with program standards.
Worked in role from February 2013 through April 2015.
Child and Family Services Specialist
State Of Nebraska - Department Of Health And Human Services
Bellevue, Nebraska
02.2022 - 01.2025
Collaborated with legal parties to secure timely permanency and stability for state wards.
Develop and implement court-approved case plans addressing family strengths and areas of need.
Implemented standardized family assessments and coordinated with local agencies to ensure compliance with court directives.
Managed case services for families within Sarpy County Juvenile Court system, focusing on their unique needs and circumstances.
Family Permanency Specialist
St. Francis Ministries/PromiseShip
Omaha , NE
04.2015 - 02.2022
Contracted by DHHS to deliver case management and reunification services for Nebraska State Wards, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Collaborated with families and community providers to facilitate permanency and enhance family outcomes.
Conducted standardized assessments and developed case plans, preparing thorough documentation for court review.
Facilitated multidisciplinary collaboration to enhance family reunification and promote child well-being.
Lab Technician
Institute for Environmental Health
Omaha , NE
07.2013 - 04.2015
Performed tests on food samples for contaminants including E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria using PCR amplification and gel electrophoresis to ensure safety and compliance.
Collaborated with technicians to uphold quality standards and achieve timely test results.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Biology
Concordia College
Moorhead, MN
05-2008
High School Diploma -
Gretna High School
Gretna, NE
05-2004
Skills
Contract management
Policy writing
Case management
Child wellbeing advocacy
Crisis intervention
Effective documentation
Team collaboration
Problem solving
Adaptability to change
Effective communication
Conflict resolution
Referral coordination
Decision-making
Written communication
Crisis management
Professionalism
Stakeholder engagement
Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
NFOCUS and NDEN systems
Collaboration with legal professionals and service providers
Risk and safety assessment frameworks
Court appearances and official report preparation
Custom Section 1
Previous Cupcake Baker – Asera Care Hospice
Previous Volunteer – Henry Doorly Zoo Reproduction Lab
Current Teammates Mentor – January 2023 to Present
Current Cake 4 Kids Baker – Cakes and treats for youth in foster care for birthdays or special occasions
Timeline
Program Specialist
State Of Nebraska - Department Of Health And Human Services
01.2025 - Current
Child and Family Services Specialist
State Of Nebraska - Department Of Health And Human Services