Accomplished Licensed Behavioral Health Professional skilled at persuasive effective communication, influencing cross-functional interdisciplinary teams
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Product Analyst
Optum
02.2022 - 05.2024
STAR (Smart Technology Authorization Review), a multimillion-dollar initiative, using advanced technology and human centered design to streamline the behavioral health prior authorization process, influencing project expansion, initiative performance and improvement, along with internal and external user satisfaction.
Drive STAR utilization by acting as the single point of contact for STAR related provider concerns and STAR process education.
Contribute to the ideation, design, development, implementation, and refinement STAR initiative, using technology and human-centered design to improve the behavioral health portal prior authorization process.
Collaborated with multiple cross functional areas (i.e., Clinical Operations, Case Management, IT, Network, Marketing, Legal/Regulatory/Compliance and Psychiatry).
Incorporated advanced analytics (AI/ML/CT), customer feedback, and clinical audits to evaluate and refine diagnosis specific question sets and associated algorithms for to assure efficacy and efficiency, improving the user experience, as well as assuring that generated review volume matches available clinical resource capacity.
Identify, monitor, and report key metrics to analyze STAR performance and impact on current OBH processes. Collaborate with appropriate leaders to assure that available resources match review volumes.
Developed and presented STAR educational materials and trainings to both internal and external stakeholders.
Managed product backlog effectively to ensure timely delivery of high-priority features without compromising quality or scope.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions addressing customer pain points.
Developed comprehensive training materials for sales and support teams, increasing overall product knowledge across the organization.
Influenced product design by incorporating customer input gathered through surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
Presented data-driven insights to stakeholders, guiding business strategy and decision-making processes.
Worked with development team to define and implement customer change requests to enhance product functionality.
Led user acceptance testing efforts, ensuring a high-quality end-product that met customer needs and expectations.
Care Advocate
OptumHealth
06.2005 - 02.2022
Researched issues and took appropriate action to resolve issues within turnaround time requirements and quality standards.
Documented activities and progress in electronic medical record per defined policy and procedures.
Reduced hospital readmission rates through diligent follow-up calls and proactive intervention strategies.
Advocated for patients'' rights, ensuring access to appropriate services and fair treatment within the healthcare system.
Collaborated with healthcare providers to facilitate smooth transitions of care for patients across different settings.
Licensed Professional Counselor -Senior Clinician
Psychotherapeutic Services
05.2003 - 12.2004
Provided therapeutic and psychosocial rehabilitation services.
Maintained accurate and timely documentation, adhering to ethical standards and guidelines for professional practice.
Developed strong rapport with clients, fostering a supportive and safe environment for self-exploration and growth.
Enhanced client well-being by utilizing evidence-based therapy techniques and individualized treatment plans.
Improved client outcomes through the implementation of effective crisis intervention strategies during high-risk situations.
Licensed Professional Counselor - Private Practice
Cornerstone Pastoral Care & Counseling Center
09.2002 - 12.2004
Arranged and facilitated therapy sessions for individuals, couples, and families.
EAP, Pro-Bono Project and Out-of-Pocket clients
Developed individualized counseling plans for clients to incorporate short-term and long-term goals.
Used cognitive behavior therapy to assist clients in recognizing and redirecting poor habits.
Guided clients in developing skills and strategies for dealing with problems.
Educated clients on dangers of substance abuse and prevention techniques.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Center For Children
03.2001 - 06.2003
Developed strong rapport with clients, fostering a supportive and safe environment for self-exploration and growth.
Provided therapy in a nonprofit community agency and a School Based Health Center
Conducted suicide evaluations and interventions for local juvenile detention center
Elementary School Counselor
Baltimore County Public Schools
08.2000 - 03.2001
Created a safe space for students within the school community where they felt comfortable discussing their concerns or seeking guidance from counselors or staff members.
Promoted a positive school environment by fostering strong relationships among staff, parents, and students.
Implemented comprehensive guidance curriculum that addressed the academic, career, and social-emotional development of all students.
Participated in IEP meetings to advocate for the needs of special education students, ensuring access to appropriate resources and support services.
Facilitated conflict resolution among peers, resulting in improved classroom dynamics and reduced behavioral issues.
Collaborated with teachers to identify students in need of additional support, providing tailored counseling services.
Conducted small group sessions on topics such as stress management, self-esteem building, and goal setting to empower individual growth.
Assistant Director of Admissions
Felician University
03.1997 - 12.1999
Organized successful open house events that showcased campus facilities and programs, attracting a larger pool of potential applicants.
Established partnerships with local high schools and community colleges to promote transfer opportunities, increasing incoming transfer student numbers.
Increased enrollment rates by implementing strategic marketing campaigns and targeted recruitment initiatives.
Directed Admission process for the Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification Program.
Recruited students at local and national college fairs.
Education
Master of Education - School Counseling
Loyola University Maryland
Baltimore, MD
2000
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Loyola University Maryland
Baltimore, MD
1996
Skills
Continuous learning mindset
Problem Solving Prowess
Critical thinking aptitude
Machine Learning Knowledge
Product Management
Customer Service
Team Collaboration
Relationship Building
Timeline
Senior Product Analyst
Optum
02.2022 - 05.2024
Care Advocate
OptumHealth
06.2005 - 02.2022
Licensed Professional Counselor -Senior Clinician
Psychotherapeutic Services
05.2003 - 12.2004
Licensed Professional Counselor - Private Practice