Donna Hanson
Lecanto,FL
Summary
Dynamic and dedicated professional with extensive experience at the Department of Children and Families, specializing in client advocacy and investigative skills. Proven track record in enhancing adult safety through thorough assessments and effective collaboration with community partners. Committed to legal compliance and maintaining confidentiality while fostering trust with vulnerable populations.
Professional investigator with comprehensive experience in adult protection, delivering impactful results in safeguarding vulnerable adults. Strong team collaborator with proven ability to adapt to evolving situations, ensuring reliable and effective interventions. Skilled in risk assessment, case management, and crisis intervention, with focus on maintaining ethical standards and achieving positive outcomes.
Experienced with assessing and investigating reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Utilizes strong analytical skills and compassionate communication to ensure safety and well-being. Knowledge of legal protocols and multi-disciplinary collaboration to protect vulnerable adults.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Adult Protective Investigator
Department Of Children and Families, State of Florida
06.2013 - Current
- Conducted thorough investigations of adult abuse and neglect cases, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
- Collaborated with law enforcement and community organizations to coordinate support services for vulnerable adults.
- Prepared detailed reports documenting findings and recommendations to inform protective actions.
- Trained new investigators on case management processes and investigative techniques.
- Advocated for clients' rights by providing resources and referrals to appropriate service providers.
- Enhanced client trust by displaying empathy, active listening, and compassionate communication during highly sensitive investigations.
- Promoted self-sufficiency among clients through referrals to supportive services tailored to their individual needs.
- Ensured accurate documentation and maintained confidentiality by diligently completing detailed reports for each investigation.
Child Protective Investigator
Department Of Children and Families, State of Florida
10.2012 - 06.2013
- Conducted thorough investigations to assess child safety and welfare.
- Collaborated with law enforcement and community agencies for case management.
- Developed detailed reports documenting findings and recommendations for intervention.
- Evaluated risk factors in family environments to formulate protective strategies.
- Advocated for children's rights by representing cases at court hearings and community meetings.
- Conducted in-depth assessments to determine if children were safe from harm and abuse at home.
- Assessed each child's unique needs and coordinated delivery of appropriate services and resources.
- Devised and implemented safety plans for children suspected as victims of abuse or neglect.
- Assessed the need for legal intervention, making recommendations to supervisors and collaborating with legal teams to ensure child''s safety and wellbeing.
- Identified patterns of abuse/neglect during investigations by reviewing case histories and drawing connections between past incidents and current concerns.
- Participated in ongoing professional development, staying current on best practices in child protection investigation techniques.
- Ensured compliance with state regulations regarding timelines for investigations, documentation, and reporting requirements.
- Conducted home visits to assess living conditions, interview family members, and observe interactions between children and caregivers.
- Documented cases meticulously, maintaining accurate records for court proceedings and agency use.
- Managed high caseloads efficiently, prioritizing tasks based on urgency and level of risk to the child.
- Improved child safety by conducting thorough investigations into allegations of abuse and neglect.
- Developed and maintained strong working relationships with community partners to facilitate effective case management.
- Enhanced family support systems by connecting families with appropriate resources and services.
- Provided expert testimony in court hearings, contributing to informed decisions on child welfare matters.
- Reduced risk of harm to children by identifying safety concerns during investigative assessments.
- Built solid and trusting rapport with children and families, fostering trust and communication to meet case needs.
Child Protective Investigator
Citrus County Sheriff Office
05.2010 - 10.2012
- Conducted thorough investigations to assess child safety and well-being in high-risk cases.
- Collaborated with law enforcement and social service agencies to coordinate protective services for at-risk children.
- Developed detailed case reports documenting findings, recommendations, and actions taken during investigations.
- Monitored compliance with state regulations and policies to ensure adherence to best practices in child welfare.
- Facilitated family assessments to identify strengths, needs, and resources available for support interventions.
- Interviewed children, members of families, medical personnel and law enforcement to gain valuable information for each case.
- Conducted in-depth assessments to determine if children were safe from harm and abuse at home.
- Documented all relevant information by filling out forms and completing case reports.
- Assessed each child's unique needs and coordinated delivery of appropriate services and resources.
- Devised and implemented safety plans for children suspected as victims of abuse or neglect.
- Provided expert testimony in court hearings, contributing to informed decisions on child welfare matters.
- Improved child safety by conducting thorough investigations into allegations of abuse and neglect.
- Developed culturally sensitive approaches when working with diverse populations in order to better understand family dynamics and values.
- Ensured compliance with state regulations regarding timelines for investigations, documentation, and reporting requirements.
- Documented cases meticulously, maintaining accurate records for court proceedings and agency use.
- Conducted home visits to assess living conditions, interview family members, and observe interactions between children and caregivers.
- Utilized strong interviewing skills to gather critical information from children, parents, educators, medical professionals, and law enforcement personnel.
- Participated in ongoing professional development, staying current on best practices in child protection investigation techniques.
- Enhanced family support systems by connecting families with appropriate resources and services.
- Assessed the need for legal intervention, making recommendations to supervisors and collaborating with legal teams to ensure child''s safety and wellbeing.
- Managed high caseloads efficiently, prioritizing tasks based on urgency and level of risk to the child.
- Reduced risk of harm to children by identifying safety concerns during investigative assessments.
Substance Abuse Mental Health Counselor
Cypress Creek Juvenile Correctional Center
07.2007 - 05.2010
- Facilitated individual and group therapy sessions to support emotional and behavioral development.
- Developed and implemented treatment plans tailored to each client's needs.
- Provided crisis intervention strategies to de-escalate challenging situations effectively.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate mental health needs and monitor progress over time.
- Established a safe environment for clients to openly discuss their thoughts, feelings, experiences, and concerns without fear of judgment or retribution.
- Continually updated professional knowledge by attending conferences, trainings, and workshops related to advancements in the field of mental health counseling.
- Reduced crisis intervention needs by proactively monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatment approaches as necessary.
- Provided crisis intervention services during emergencies, deescalating situations and connecting individuals with appropriate resources for ongoing support.
- Developed individualized goal-setting tools to empower patients in taking ownership of their progress towards improved mental health.
- Employed methodologies such as cognitive behavioral therapy to assist patients.
- Maintained detailed documentation of clinical notes, tracking patient progress throughout the course of treatment.
- Improved patient treatment outcomes by conducting thorough assessments and developing customized treatment plans.
- Built rapport with diverse client populations, utilizing empathetic listening skills and culturally sensitive therapeutic practices.
- Enhanced patient engagement through the implementation of group therapy sessions focused on coping strategies and emotional regulation.
- Facilitated smooth discharge by encouraging and reassuring clients throughout transitions.
- Trained in substance abuse, co-occurring disorders and effects of employment and housing issues on mental health.
- Improved client mental health stability with consistent one-on-one counseling sessions focused on trauma-informed care.
- Increased client satisfaction and trust through establishment of clear communication channels and feedback mechanisms.
- Prepared reports to summarize clients' mental health status and treatment progress.
Teacher’s Assistant
Model Laboratory School EKU
04.2004 - 06.2007
- Work with special needs students
- Assisted teachers in developing and implementing individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Facilitated classroom activities, promoting engagement and collaboration among students.
- Supported assessment processes by collecting and organizing student progress data effectively.
- Coordinated communication between educators, parents, and support staff to enhance student learning experiences.
- Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on the latest teaching trends and methodologies, enhancing overall effectiveness as an educator.
- Ensured the safety of all students by adhering strictly to school policies regarding proper supervision during class times as well as extracurricular activities.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents through regular communication about student progress and areas for growth, ultimately contributing to improved home-school partnerships.
- Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining open lines of communication with students, parents, and staff.
Substitute Teacher
Estill County Schools
08.2003 - 04.2004
- Facilitated lesson plans and classroom activities for diverse student populations.
- Adapted instructional materials to meet varied learning needs and styles.
- Managed classroom behaviors to create a positive learning environment.
- Collaborated with teachers to ensure continuity in instruction and curriculum delivery.
- Developed strong relationships with students, promoting engagement and participation.
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Maintained day-to-day classroom management and discipline to promote learning initiatives.
- Enhanced classroom management by implementing positive reinforcement strategies and maintaining clear expectations for behavior.
- Provided support to special education students in inclusive classrooms, developing accommodations and modifications to meet their unique needs.
Teacher's Assistant/Aid
Morris Central School
09.2002 - 06.2003
- Assisted teachers in the classroom with special needs students
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities such as workshops or conferences to stay current in educational trends.
Substitute Teacher
Estill County Schools
08.2001 - 06.2002
- Implemented lesson plans to maintain instructional continuity during teacher absences.
- Managed classroom behavior to foster a positive learning environment for students.
- Adapted teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs.
- Collaborated with staff to support student engagement and academic performance.
- Developed rapport with students to enhance classroom dynamics and participation.
- Participated in professional development opportunities to refine teaching strategies and skills.
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Maintained day-to-day classroom management and discipline to promote learning initiatives.
- Provided support to special education students in inclusive classrooms, developing accommodations and modifications to meet their unique needs.
Juvenile Probation Officer
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice
09.2000 - 07.2001
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to determine rehabilitation needs of juvenile offenders.
- Developed and implemented individualized case management plans for high-risk youth.
- Monitored compliance with court orders, ensuring adherence to probation requirements.
- Advocated for alternatives to detention when appropriate, emphasizing the importance of community-based interventions over punitive measures.
- Managed caseloads effectively by prioritizing tasks, utilizing time management skills, and maintaining organized case files.
- Established positive rapport with juveniles under supervision, fostering trust and open communication while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Promoted department's mission and procedures to community organizations, school officials and law enforcement.
- Enhanced community safety by closely monitoring and supervising juveniles on probation, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions.
- Collaborated with police detectives, child welfare organizations and district attorneys to resolve cases and protect juvenile individuals.
- Coordinated with mental health professionals to address substance abuse concerns and emotional well-being among juveniles under supervision.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on trends, research, and best practices in the field of juvenile justice.
- Assisted young people in developing realistic goals for their future while supporting them throughout the process of achieving those objectives.
- Strengthened family dynamics for successful rehabilitation by providing resources and support to both juveniles and their families.
- Investigated juveniles' activities, school attendance and employment.
- Alerted law enforcement about probation violations.
Probation Officer
Passaic County New Jersey Probation Office
08.1988 - 04.1995
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of offenders to evaluate rehabilitation needs and risks.
- Developed individualized supervision plans to promote compliance with court mandates.
- Monitored offender progress through regular check-ins and case management strategies.
- Collaborated with community agencies to facilitate access to support services for offenders.
- Evaluated evidence and prepared reports for court hearings, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness.
- Maintained compliance with all legal statutes, policies and procedures.
- Established productive relationships with local law enforcement agencies, enhancing information sharing and cooperation.
- Maintained organized offender records and documentation in compliance with department and legal standards.
- Wrote progress reports and testified under oath at court hearings.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in the field of community corrections.
- Ensured compliance with court-ordered sanctions by closely monitoring probationers'' adherence to conditions of release.
- Conducted investigations into violations and other allegations.
- Monitored defendants' compliance and progress in treatment by reviewing reports from counseling agencies.
- Arranged substance abuse rehabilitation for offenders.
- Performed routine home inspections and drug tests for offenders on parole.
- Coordinated and worked closely with law enforcement, social service agencies and mental health providers.
- Field visit to probationer's homes; search homes and probationers
Education
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
John Jay College of Crimina Justice
New York City New York05-1987
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
County College of Morris
Randolph Township, NJ05-1985
High School Diploma -
Clifton High School
Clifton, NJ06-1982
Skills
- Client advocacy
- Assertiveness
- Legal compliance
- Investigative skills
- Interviewing techniques
- Strong work ethic
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking Abilities
- Reliability
- Organizational skills
- Team collaboration
- Active listening
- Team leadership
- Effective communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Decision-making
- Privacy and confidentiality
- Professionalism
- Documentation and reporting
- Abuse and neglect investigation
Timeline
Senior Adult Protective Investigator
Department Of Children and Families, State of Florida
06.2013 - Current
Child Protective Investigator
Department Of Children and Families, State of Florida
10.2012 - 06.2013
Child Protective Investigator
Citrus County Sheriff Office
05.2010 - 10.2012
Substance Abuse Mental Health Counselor
Cypress Creek Juvenile Correctional Center
07.2007 - 05.2010
Teacher’s Assistant
Model Laboratory School EKU
04.2004 - 06.2007
Substitute Teacher
Estill County Schools
08.2003 - 04.2004
Teacher's Assistant/Aid
Morris Central School
09.2002 - 06.2003
Substitute Teacher
Estill County Schools
08.2001 - 06.2002
Juvenile Probation Officer
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice
09.2000 - 07.2001
Probation Officer
Passaic County New Jersey Probation Office
08.1988 - 04.1995
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
John Jay College of Crimina Justice
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
County College of Morris
High School Diploma -
Clifton High School