Davita Walker
Summary
Dynamic Certified Peer Specialist with extensive experience at Safe Communities Coalition, enhancing mental health outcomes through trauma-informed support and effective resource linkage. Skilled in motivational interviewing and emotional regulation, I empower clients to navigate recovery while fostering trust and resilience in their journeys. Committed to advocating for systemic change and client needs.
Experienced with providing empathetic support to individuals in recovery. Utilizes active listening and personal experience to build trust and rapport. Knowledge of peer support principles and mental health resources.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Certified Peer Specialist- Recovery Coach.
Safe Communities Coalition
12.2019 - Current
- Conducted successful support groups that provided a safe environment for individuals to share experiences and offer peer support.
- Increased awareness of available community resources among clients through regular presentations at local events or hosting informational booths during resource fairs.
- Established trust-based relationships with clients using shared lived experience as a foundation for meaningful connections.
- Promoted a positive recovery culture within the organization by serving as a role model for hope, resilience, and self-determination.
- Improved mental health outcomes for clients through active listening, empathy, and effective communication skills.
- Advocated for client needs within mental health services systems, promoting access to appropriate care options.
- Maintained thorough documentation of client progress notes, assessments, and treatment plans in compliance with regulatory guidelines.
- Provided crisis intervention services as needed to ensure client safety and stability during challenging situations.
- Empowered clients to make informed decisions about their care by providing education on available resources and wellness strategies.
- Maintained professional ethical standards by adhering to guidelines set forth by the Certified Peer Specialist Code of Conduct and respecting client confidentiality at all times.
Peer Navigator
UW Waisman Center
05.2021 - 03.2024
- Coordinated referrals for additional services like counseling or housing assistance, streamlining the process for clients in need.
- Supported fellow Peer Navigators through regular team meetings and debriefing sessions, sharing best practices and providing constructive feedback.
- Enhanced client engagement by providing personalized support and resources tailored to individual needs.
- Established rapport with clients through empathetic listening and understanding, fostering trust and open communication.
- Advocated on behalf of clients to address systemic barriers that impeded access to essential services or resources.
- Conducted regular follow-ups with clients to monitor progress and provide ongoing support, ensuring continuity of care.
- Contributed valuable insights from lived experience during team meetings, enhancing the efficacy of care plans developed for clients facing similar challenges.
- Developed strong relationships with community organizations in order to expand available resources for clients seeking assistance.
- Collaborated closely with clinical staff to ensure that client needs were met effectively and efficiently.
- Assisted clients in accessing community resources and services, strengthening their support networks and promoting overall wellbeing.
Shelter Worker
Salvation Army Family Shelter
01.2017 - 11.2019
- Ensured safety of residents by monitoring and enforcing shelter rules and protocols consistently.
- Streamlined intake process, effectively assessing new clients'' needs and determining appropriate resources.
- Contributed to the establishment of a supportive and inclusive atmosphere within the shelter through active listening and empathetic engagement with clients.
- Addressed crisis situations with sensitivity, utilizing conflict resolution skills to maintain a safe environment for all parties involved.
- Assisted clients in obtaining necessary documentation such as identification cards or birth certificates to aid in their job search or housing applications process.
- Collaborated with local service providers to secure essential resources for the betterment of shelter inhabitants.
- Served as a liaison between clients and social service agencies, effectively advocating on their behalf and securing necessary resources.
- Increased community awareness about homelessness issues by organizing public outreach events and presentations.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Human Services
Madison Area Technical College
Madison, WI05-2019
Skills
- Trauma experience
- Social skills
- Mental health awareness
- Emotional regulation
- Self-care techniques
- Stress reduction
- Relapse prevention
- Family support
- Documentation
- Goal setting
- Motivational interviewing
- Resource linkage
- Recovery planning
Timeline
Peer Navigator
UW Waisman Center
05.2021 - 03.2024
Certified Peer Specialist- Recovery Coach.
Safe Communities Coalition
12.2019 - Current
Shelter Worker
Salvation Army Family Shelter
01.2017 - 11.2019
Associate of Applied Science - Human Services
Madison Area Technical College
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