Joseph A Acosta
Community Support Worker
Albuquerque,NM
Summary
Experienced in providing compassionate, culturally responsive support to youth, adults, and older adults. Skilled in crisis intervention, safety planning, and harm-reduction practices. Trained in CBT and person-centered approaches to support individuals with co-occurring and dual-diagnosis needs in detention, community-based, and clinical settings.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
5
5
Certificates
Work History
Community Support Worker
University of New Mexico Hospital
Albuquerque, United States
09.2018 - Current
- Conducted home visits to assess living conditions and identify potential barriers to client success, recommending modifications as needed for enhanced safety and accessibility..
- Developed personalized care plans, addressing each client''s unique needs and goals for improved quality of life.
- Worked collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team (behavioral health providers, nurses, case managers, and physicians) to coordinate client care
- Supported clients with crisis intervention, safety planning, and harm-reduction strategies
- Conducted outreach, case management, and follow-up services to promote treatment engagement and continuity of care
Community Support Coordinator
CLARO
Albuquerque, United States
10.2021 - 02.2024
- Supported individuals in MOUD treatment using harm-reduction practices and motivational interviewing to increase engagement and improve treatment outcomes
- Delivered person-centered interventions and care coordination for clients with co-occurring mental health and substance-use needs in a research-based clinical program
- Trained staff and peers in motivational interviewing techniques and supported program fidelity by modeling trauma-informed, client-driven communication strategies
Youth Care Specialist 2
Children, Youth and Families Department
Albuquerque, United States
05.2017 - 09.2018
- Developed individualized reintegration plans for youth transitioning back into school, home, and community settings, focusing on stability, social skills, and continued support
- Created safety plans, treatment goals, and discharge plans in collaboration with youth, guardians, and multidisciplinary teams to support long-term success and reduce risk factors
- oordinated with schools, community partners, and family networks while maintaining clear documentation, progress notes, and case reports to ensure continuity of care
Correctional Officer
Children, Youth and Families Department
Las Cruces, United States
11.2016 - 05.2017
- Developed discharge and reentry plans for incarcerated individuals, coordinating with addiction treatment programs to assess needs, monitor progress, and support recovery goals
- Assisted clients in obtaining housing resources by completing Section 8 applications, exploring voucher programs, and connecting them with supportive housing services
- Provided reintegration support through community referrals, benefit navigation, and access to mental health and substance-use treatment to promote a safe and stable transition back into the community
Program Manager
La Clinica De Familia Inc.
Las Cruces, United States
09.2016 - 12.2016
- Oversaw daily operations of a residential treatment program serving 10–15 at-risk youth, ensuring safety, structure, and trauma-informed care
- Supervised and trained a team of 7 direct care staff, providing ongoing coaching, scheduling, and performance evaluations
Youth Care Specalist 1
Children, Youth and Families Department
Las Cruces, United States
05.2015 - 08.2016
- Managed crisis situations effectively, deescalating conflicts and ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
- Organized recreational and cultural activities that promoted socialization, physical health, and personal growth among participating youths.
Residential Relief Specialist
Family, Youth and Families Department
Las Cruces, United States
05.2009 - 01.2012
- Provided direct supervision and care for male youth ages 12–17 in a structured group home setting, focusing on safety, behavioral support, and emotional well-being
- Filled in across shifts as needed, including overnights, weekends, and holidays, ensuring 24/7 coverage and continuity of care
Education
Master of Arts - Clinical Mental Health Counselor
New Mexico Highlands University
Las Vegas, NM 05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM 05.2001 -
Skills
Individualized support
Social integration
Drug abuse prevention
Behavioral support
Substance abuse awareness
Client advocacy
Housing assistance
Community outreach
Mental health
Certification
Motivational Interviewing
Timeline
CPR
01-2025
Motivational Interviewing
01-2024
Opioid Use Disorder
02-2023
Crisis Intervention
02-2023
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
01-2023
Community Support Coordinator
CLARO
10.2021 - 02.2024
Community Support Worker
University of New Mexico Hospital
09.2018 - Current
Youth Care Specialist 2
Children, Youth and Families Department
05.2017 - 09.2018
Correctional Officer
Children, Youth and Families Department
11.2016 - 05.2017
Program Manager
La Clinica De Familia Inc.
09.2016 - 12.2016
Youth Care Specalist 1
Children, Youth and Families Department
05.2015 - 08.2016
Residential Relief Specialist
Family, Youth and Families Department
05.2009 - 01.2012
Master of Arts - Clinical Mental Health Counselor
New Mexico Highlands University
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
New Mexico State University
05.2001 -