Provide mental health services and conduct regular mental health checks and rounds with Patients in accordance to policy
Provide psycho-Social-educational programming and activities for groups and individuals to improve the social, cognitive, problem solving, and daily lives of incarcerated individuals
Triage mental health concerns of targeted patients and provide consultation services as assigned
Participated in release continuity of care planning for patients and maintained patient confidentiality while interrelating effectively with patients, staff, and outside support agencies
Complied with employee standards of the facility, applied principles of critical thinking, sound judgement and worked under stress on a regular basis.
Provided targeted therapeutic interventions for clients experiencing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related issues, and substance abuse concerns.
Managed caseloads efficiently by prioritizing based on client needs and availability of resources, ensuring timely intervention for all patients.
Documented client progress in confidential files.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to create holistic care plans for patients, addressing both mental and physical health needs.
Maintained strong working relationships with community organizations to facilitate referrals and provide comprehensive resources for clients'' ongoing care needs.
Improved patient outcomes by developing and implementing comprehensive mental health treatment plans.
Continually expanded professional knowledge through participation in relevant training workshops and conferences to enhance service delivery quality.
Performed client assessments and developed treatment plans.
Streamlined clinical documentation processes, maintaining accurate records while reducing time spent on paperwork tasks.
Encouraged clients to express feelings and discuss what was happening in day-to-day life in order to help each person develop insight into personal experiences and relationships
Conducted thorough assessments of new patients to develop individualized treatment strategies.
Evaluated patients and implemented comprehensive treatment plans to enhance mental health.
Served as a mentor for junior staff members, providing guidance and professional development support to enhance overall team performance.
Delivered group therapy sessions focused on specific mental health topics, fostering peer support amongst participants and promoting skill development.
Increased client retention rates by consistently demonstrating empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to excellent patient care.
Enhanced patient experience through compassionate care and open communication during therapy sessions.
Managed crisis situations effectively, deescalating potentially dangerous behavior and ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
Coordinated with primary care providers to ensure seamless integration of mental health services into overall healthcare plans for patients with comorbid conditions.
Attended trainings to participate in regular supervision and continued education to maintain professional competence and ethical standards.
Documented clients' progress to keep detailed notes on each client's treatment progress and changes in mental health status.
Assessed mental health needs to determine nature and extent of clients' emotional, behavioral or mental health issues.
Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans, and connected clients and families to appropriate resources.
Adhered to ethical and legal standards for confidentiality, protecting clients' privacy.
Provided referrals to connect clients with other community resources to support mental health and well-being.
Observed and monitored client behavior and responses to treatment.
Stayed current on mental health research to follow new developments and research in mental health field.
Conducted crisis interventions to respond to clients in crisis, assess immediate needs and provide support and resources.
Worked collaboratively with other mental health professionals to provide consistent care and minimize diversion.
Consulted with other staff members regarding treatment plans as deemed appropriate by team leader.
Prepared reports to summarize clients' mental health status and treatment progress.
Displayed sensitivity to cultural and linguistic needs of clients and families served.
Encouraged patients to discuss experiences in group and individual settings.
Corporal Correction Officer
Arkansas Department of Corrections
05.2023 - 07.2023
Maintained security and directing the activities of inmates/residents during an assigned shift or observing the behavior of inmates/residents and documenting records as required
Provided job training, monitors the work activities of inmates/residents by guarding them while they are on work-release, maintaining inventory of all keys, tools, and equipment, and keeping a firm count of inmates/residents at all times
Conducted daily searches of contraband both inside and outside the facility
Managed specific programs, such as inmate/resident property, inmate/resident discipline and job training
Performed security checks of buildings and grounds
Searched inmates/residents and their living quarters
Prepared and maintained written reports concerning incidences of inmate/residents disturbances and/or injuries and disciplinary actions
Attended various meetings, including briefings to discuss incidents and problems, security issues, and inspections during shifts
Escorted and transported inmates/residents to work assignments, other unit areas, or court hearings
Performed other duties as assigned
Supervised inmates/residents performing work tasks.
Police Dispatcher
Mountain Home Police/Baxter Co.
08.2021 - 03.2022
Coordinated multi-agency responses for large-scale incidents, resulting in effective resource allocation and successful outcomes.
Handled sensitive situations with professionalism, maintaining confidentiality while collecting necessary information from callers for effective intervention.
Managed high-stress situations effectively, utilizing active listening skills and empathy to provide support to those involved in emergencies or traumatic events.
Maintained a calm and reassuring presence during high-pressure situations, ensuring clear communication between callers, officers, and other agencies involved in emergency response.
Supported public safety initiatives by gathering relevant data from callers for accurate dispatching of appropriate resources.
Received 911 and non-emergency calls and dispatched calls to appropriate agencies and officers on duty.
Used specialized software to track and maintain case incident numbers and logs.
Contributed to officer safety by diligently monitoring radio traffic and providing timely status checks.
Questioned callers to determine nature of problems and locations to direct type of response needed.
Entered criminal record checks, driver's license numbers and warrants into telecommunications systems to fulfill officer requests.
Utilized advanced mapping software to accurately pinpoint caller locations, aiding officers in swift response times during emergencies.
Operated telephone and radio equipment to receive requests and reports from police officers, medical dispatch and firefighting crews.
Enhanced response times by efficiently prioritizing and dispatching emergency calls.
Provided critical support during natural disasters, coordinating resources and relaying vital information between agencies for efficient response efforts.
Assisted in reducing crime rates by providing crucial information to officers during investigations and patrol activities.
Reduced false alarms through diligent verification procedures before initiating police response.
Completed appropriate forms and radio announcements for police department needs such as BOLO requests.
Received public emergency and non-emergency calls and supervised response prioritization in order to effectively dispatch official units such as police, fire, and EMS while tracking data in real-time environments.
Assisted callers in emergency situations with appropriate information and support.
Applied interpersonal skills in neutralizing hostile and emotionally charged situations.
Routed calls to police, fire, and ambulance service to meet individual call needs.
Relayed latest information to first responders via electronic means, telephone calls, and radio responses.
Mental Health Provider & Skills trainer/Social Service Worker
Border Region Behavioral Clinic
05.2018 - 05.2019
Reported directly to the program administrator, or assistant program administrator and worked as a team with co-workers to ensure a positive outcome.
Coordinated care with outside providers such as primary care physicians or psychiatrists when necessary, ensuring seamless continuity of care for clients.
Built rapport with diverse populations through cultural competency training and inclusive practices within the therapeutic setting.
Conducted thorough diagnostic evaluations using standardized assessment tools, facilitating accurate diagnoses for targeted treatment planning.
Reduced crisis situations by conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing safety plans.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive mental health care for clients.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in mental health care.
Increased client engagement in treatment by utilizing evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs.
Assisted clients in setting realistic goals and developing strategies to achieve them, fostering self-efficacy and empowerment.
Maintained accurate documentation of client interactions, adhering to ethical guidelines and legal requirements.
Assisted clients in navigating the complexities of insurance coverage, helping to secure necessary authorizations for treatment and alleviate financial barriers to care.
Advocated for client needs within the mental health system, ensuring access to appropriate resources and services.
Served as an advocate within the community by participating in outreach initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of mental health issues and available services.
Documented client progress in confidential files.
Implemented crisis intervention plans to support client safety.
Developed and implemented activities to help clients develop social and independent living skills.
Collaborated with medical and clinical personnel to coordinate and implement client services.
Educated clients and families about mental health issues, treatments and resources.
Built partnerships with community agencies and service providers to remove access gaps.
Monitored client progress and provided feedback to families and treatment team members.
Supported continuity of care after discharge with individualized discharge plans.
Provided clients with recommendations to community resources.
Facilitated support groups for clients to discuss issues related to mental health.
Provided case management services to monitor client access to resources and services.
Evaluated patients based on mental and physical parameters discovered through interviews and standardized assessments.
Revised individual treatment plans for clients with mental health concerns to obtain best possible outcomes.
Attended trainings to participate in regular supervision and continued education to maintain professional competence and ethical standards.
Conducted crisis interventions to respond to clients in crisis, assess immediate needs and provide support and resources.
Documented clients' progress to keep detailed notes on each client's treatment progress and changes in mental health status.
Worked collaboratively with other mental health professionals to provide consistent care and minimize diversion.
Assessed mental health needs to determine nature and extent of clients' emotional, behavioral or mental health issues.
Consulted with other staff members regarding treatment plans as deemed appropriate by team leader.
Provided referrals to connect clients with other community resources to support mental health and well-being.
Prepared reports to summarize clients' mental health status and treatment progress.
Displayed sensitivity to cultural and linguistic needs of clients and families served.
Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans, and connected clients and families to appropriate resources.
Encouraged patients to discuss experiences in group and individual settings.
Tailored instruction methods based on individual needs assessments, promoting optimal learning experiences for each participant.
Maintained detailed records of each participant's progress throughout the program, enabling targeted follow-up support as needed.
Graduate Research Assistant/Graduate Level Teacher Assistant
Texas A&M International University
09.2017 - 05.2018
Employ strategies that lead to student academic success
Grade college level essays (check for correct English grammar and punctuation, word use and skill)
Create PowerPoint presentations
Create and proctor exams/quizzes
Transcribing for publications
Grade assignments (essays, exams, quizzes)
Provide feedback to students
Assist professor with any classroom (online and in person) tasks
Conduct research
Interact with students
Engage in discussions with students in class and online
Respond to students
Grade using scantron equipment
Lecture.
Utilized advanced statistical software to analyze large datasets, uncovering key insights for informed decisionmaking.
Participated in regular meetings with project supervisors, providing progress updates and discussing potential challenges or areas for improvement.
Assisted in manuscript preparation, contributing to the publication of influential articles in peer-reviewed journals.
Managed multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and adherence to high-quality standards.
Enhanced research quality by conducting thorough literature reviews and synthesizing findings.
Contributed to professionally-written scientific paper for publication.
Planned, modified and executed research techniques, procedures and tests.
Designed surveys and interview protocols for primary data collection, ensuring accurate representation of target populations.
Presented research findings at conferences and workshops, fostering professional growth and collaboration within the academic community.
Implemented robust data management strategies, safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining compliance with ethical guidelines.
Contributed to the development of research proposals, securing funding for critical projects.
Mentored undergraduate students, providing guidance on research methodologies and techniques.
Conducted extensive background research on specific topics, establishing a strong foundation for project success.
Reviewed and synthesized relevant research articles to inform the development of research questions and hypotheses.
Contributed to research and data analysis within Academic department landscape.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to advance research objectives and achieve project milestones.
Recorded data and maintained source documentation following good documentation practices.
Completed administrative and research duties per professor request.
Developed comprehensive reports, effectively communicating complex research findings to diverse audiences.
Coordinated materials for Project.
Conducted rigorous experiments using cutting-edge tools and equipment to test hypotheses and validate theories.
Compiled and synthesized data to identify larger trends and research patterns impacting area of study.
Conducted thorough literature reviews to better understand research topics and prepare for studies.
Prepared research project documentation to facilitate approval processes.
Drafted technical papers and other documentation for use by research leadership.
Partnered with research team to strategize research and develop specific plans.
Developed instruments to collect data, including experimental documentation and survey questions.
Met regularly with research team to identify issues and maintain study alignment with objectives.
Performed accurate quantitative analysis of targeted data research, collection and report preparation.
Reviewed technical and professional publications and journals to stay current on recent literature and make more strategic research decisions.
Conducted document review, organization and quality control of data acquisition to draw relevant conclusions and direct research activities.
Applied theories and methods of life sciences to interpret and perform analyses of experimental results.
Graded and evaluated student assignments, papers, and course work.
Student Intern Agent
Department of Family and Protection Services
02.2016 - 05.2016
Observe and document collaterals
Conduct case interviews under supervision via phone and in person
Typing and submit reports using specialized software and word processor
Assisted in the resolution of confidential matters
Communicating with people of different backgrounds to facilitate and assist in cooperation.
Reported back to instructor to receive day-to-day tasks and responsibilities.
Developed time-management skills through balancing multiple assignments while consistently meeting deadlines during the internship period.
Communicated effectively with faculty and staff and accepted critiques and suggestions for areas of improvement.
Enhanced internship experience by actively participating in team meetings and contributing valuable ideas.
Demonstrated adaptability by learning new software programs and tools quickly, enhancing overall efficiency within the intern role.
Contributed to increased productivity within the team by taking initiative in problem-solving and offering innovative solutions.
Updated client documentation for accurate, compliant and current records.
Interviewed clients, families, or groups to assess situations, limitations and issues and implement services to address needs.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure appropriate care coordination and resource allocation for clients.
Educated families on available community resources, connecting them with essential services such as housing assistance, financial aid, or healthcare providers.
Supported clients and families with empathy and compassion during difficult times.
De-escalated stressful situations through individual and family crisis interventions.
Maintained accurate case documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and facilitating informed decision-making by team members.
Advocated for clients to assure respected rights and wishes.
Improved client well-being by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing tailored intervention plans.
Maintained regular contact with clients by calling and visiting clients' homes.
Conducted home visits to assess living environment and facilitate access to necessary resources.
Monitored clients' progress and adapted treatment plans to meet changing needs.
Helped clients develop new coping mechanisms and techniques to drive behavior modification.
Conducted home visits to assess family dynamics, providing guidance on effective communication strategies and conflict resolution techniques.
Promoted a culture of self-care and professional development among colleagues, fostering a supportive work environment that encouraged ongoing growth and learning.
Developed and facilitated support groups, promoting healthy coping skills and fostering peer connections among participants.
Formulated treatment plan strategies with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive and continuous care plan.
Increased client engagement in treatment plans by building trusting relationships through empathetic listening and consistent support.
Assisted clients in navigating the legal system, attending court hearings as needed and providing support throughout the process.
Nonprofit Advisor
The River Pierce Foundation
05.2014 - 08.2015
Secured grant funding for nonprofits by researching opportunities, and submitting well-crafted proposals.
Developed strategic plans for nonprofit organizations, resulting in increased funding and program expansion.
Improved donor relations by establishing successful partnerships and maintaining consistent communication.
Enhanced volunteer recruitment efforts with targeted marketing campaigns and community outreach initiatives.
Provided guidance on best practices related to governance structures, policies, procedures that led to improved board performance.
Evaluated program effectiveness, implementing necessary improvements to better serve target populations.
Implemented innovative fundraising strategies that increased donations from individual donors and corporations.
Established metrics-driven evaluation processes to track progress towards organizational goals while demonstrating positive outcomes to funders.
Coordinated special events for nonprofits, maximizing opportunities for supporter engagement and fundraising success.
Increased public awareness of nonprofit missions through engaging social media campaigns and local events.
Engaged board members more effectively through ongoing communication and tailored resources designed to enhance their leadership capabilities.
Supported nonprofits during periods of transition or crisis management by offering expertise in strategic planning, financial management, personnel decisions.
Assisted in the development of marketing materials, raising awareness about the organization''s mission and accomplishments.
Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
Gathered, organized and input information into digital database.
Evaluated customer needs and feedback to drive product and service improvements.
Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
Maintained database systems to track and analyze operational data.
Evaluated staff performance and provided coaching to address inefficiencies.
Developed effective improvement plans in alignment with goals and specifications.
Frequently inspected production area to verify proper equipment operation.
Created and managed project plans, timelines and budgets.
Cultivated positive relationships with vendors to deliver timely and cost-effective supply of services and materials.
Provided reporting for forecast analysis and ad-hoc reporting in support of decision-making.
Patient Coordinator
El Parque Adult Day Care
05.2003 - 07.2004
Increased efficiency of the front office operations through effective multitasking, attention to detail, and organization skills.
Provided excellent customer service to all patients, addressing concerns and answering questions promptly and professionally.
Handled sensitive situations with empathy when dealing with distressed patients or those facing serious health challenges.
Maintained up-to-date knowledge on insurance policies, medical terminology, and clinic protocols in order to provide accurate information and assistance to patients.
Managed incoming calls from patients, directing them appropriately while maintaining confidentiality at all times.
Maintained confidentiality of patient data and condition to safeguard health information.
Promoted a culture of teamwork among clinic staff by offering assistance whenever needed and fostering open communication channels.
Upheld confidentiality requirements and regulatory compliance guidelines.
Shared patient status updates during shift changes for continuum of care.
Contributed to the achievement of clinic goals by consistently meeting or exceeding performance metrics related to patient satisfaction and efficiency.
Contributed to a positive atmosphere within the clinic by maintaining a professional demeanor and compassionate attitude towards all patients.
Supported clinical staff in providing high-quality care by organizing necessary paperwork and ensuring timely access to information.
Coordinated transportation to get patients to and from medical appointments.
Provided support and guidance to patients and families to navigate healthcare systems.
Provided excellent customer service to patients and medical staff.
Responded to inquiries by directing calls to appropriate personnel.
Helped address client complaints through timely corrective actions and appropriate referrals.
Facilitated communication between patients and various departments and staff.
Applied administrative knowledge and courtesy to explain procedures and services to patients.
Engaged with patients to provide critical information.
Organized patient records and database to facilitate information storage and retrieval.
Compiled and maintained patient medical records to keep information complete and up-to-date.
Worked with patients to ascertain issues and make referrals to appropriate specialists.
Offered simple, clear explanations to help clients and families understand hospital policies and procedures.
Taught patients and families to use at-home medical equipment.
Recommended service improvements to minimize recurring patient issues and complaints.
Education
MA of Sociology - Sociology
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX
05.2022
BA of Sociology - Sociology
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX
05.2018
Skills
Anxiety Reduction Techniques
Stress Management Strategies
Case Documentation
Developing relationships
Depression Management
Multicultural Competence
Crisis Intervention
Suicide Prevention
Group Counseling
Self-Care Promotion
Facilitating counseling sessions
Autism Spectrum Support
Patient Evaluation
Building rapport
Confidential records
Empathy Development
Discharge Planning
Behavioral assessment
Group therapy facilitation
Treatment Planning
Sexual Assault Support
Teamwork and Collaboration
Problem-Solving
Time Management
Attention to Detail
Problem-solving abilities
Multitasking
Multitasking Abilities
Reliability
Excellent Communication
Organizational Skills
Team Collaboration
Active Listening
Effective Communication
Adaptability and Flexibility
Decision-Making
Patient Education
Relationship Building
Clinical Documentation
Clinical interventions
Team building
Task Prioritization
Self Motivation
Interpersonal Skills
Analytical Thinking
Goal Setting
Professionalism
Mental health evaluations
Continuous Improvement
Adaptability
Written Communication
Mental Health Assessment
Positive patient experiences
Professional Demeanor
Case management proficiency
Skilled in intake interviewing
Learning disability awareness
Analytical Skills
Process Monitoring
Nonviolent Crisis Intervention
Social skills teacher
Knowledge of juvenile justice system
Email
embm15@yahoo.com
erica.benavides@doc.arkansas.gov
Street
26 Winchester Rd
City
Mountain Home
State
AR
Zip
72653
Phone
(956) 3375318
Awards
Lamar Bruni Vergara Graduate Assistantship Award ($15,000 Scholarship at TAMIU)
Lamar Bruni Vergara Graduate Assistantship Award ($15,000 at TAMIU)
Member of the Sociology Honor Society - Alpha Kappa Delta
Member of the Criminal Justice National Honor society – Alpha Phi Sigma
Scholastic Achiever Award at Laredo Community College
References
Marjorie Parrot Hall, Health Services Administrator, North Central Unit, 10 Prison Circle, Calico Rock, AR, 72519, Cell 870656-6465
Phone 870297-3341, MHallParrott@wellpath.us
Alan Rogers, Rehab Program Manager, Grimes, Newport & North Central Unit, Office 870-512-1553, alan.rogers@arkansas.gov
Caitlyn Williams, Mental Health Advisor, North Central Unit, Office 870-291-3337
John C Kilburn, Associate Vice President, Research & Sponsored Projects, KLM-326C, Laredo, TX, 78041, Tel. (956) 326-3221
Fax (956) 326-2239
Previousaddresses
1116 S. Siesta Lane
1702 Hidalgo Blvd.
Zapata, Tx. 78076
Cover Letter
Dear Hiring Manager,
As an individual with a Masters of Arts in Sociology and minor in Criminal Justice, I apply with enthusiasm for this opportunity.
During my time at Texas A & M International University in Laredo, Texas I completed a thesis focusing on Correlates of Intimate Partner Cyber-Harassment among Mexican American College students. I graduated Summa Cum Laude and was student respondent/valedictorian of my graduating class. I received 2 consecutive assistantships and accepted one term of Graduate Assistantship where I contributed to research. I have worked at North Central Unit for over a year working as an officer and a mental health advisor. I tell you this because I believe with my background, education, and experience I am a unique and qualified candidate for this position.
As you will see from my curriculum vitae/resume, I have worked in a wide range of fields. As a Master of Sociology, I very much enjoy working in a diversity of situations which contributes to my knowledge and skills working with people and the community. I am now seeking a stimulating role that will enable me to work with a company which can help me grow and advance in a career I have a passion for. I have experience collaborating with inmates, medical professionals, and security to in both stressful and sensitive situations to help identify issues and ways to maintain safety for both clients and staff. I have both patience and creativity which is essential in engaging incarcerated individuals. I have an exceptional ability to problem solve and communicate. I very much would appreciate the opportunity to join your family as I know I could provide a skill set needed to work and succeed in this environment.
Attached you will find my curriculum vitae, degrees and a copy of my published manuscript for your consideration. Thank you very much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you regarding next steps to being part of your company.
Best Regards,
Erica M. Benavides
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
En
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Mental Health Advisor
Arkansas Department of Corrections
07.2023 - 05.2024
Corporal Correction Officer
Arkansas Department of Corrections
05.2023 - 07.2023
Police Dispatcher
Mountain Home Police/Baxter Co.
08.2021 - 03.2022
Mental Health Provider & Skills trainer/Social Service Worker
Border Region Behavioral Clinic
05.2018 - 05.2019
Graduate Research Assistant/Graduate Level Teacher Assistant
Correctional Corporal at Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's UnitCorrectional Corporal at Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit