Empathetic Peer Support Specialist proven to build trusting relationships with those served. Caring with genuine concern for the well-being.
Hardworking and committed to listening, navigating, and creating strength-based goals with those served through life challenges. Engaging, outgoing with strong communication skills, while providing knowledge and community connections in the care system. A willingness to share life experiences related to mental illness, substance use disorder, eating disorder, self-harm, neuro-divergent and family dynamics.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Recovery Peer Specialist, F & A
Florida Recovery Schools Of Central Florida
06.2019 - 01.2024
Conducted weekly and monthly support group opportunities for families impacted by mental health and substance use disorder.
Enhanced client recovery by providing personalized support and sharing lived experiences.
Contributed to the development of treatment plans for better mental health outcomes.
Assisted clients in identifying personal strengths and setting realistic goals for their recovery journey.
Empowered clients by teaching them coping strategies and self-help techniques.
Provided group, family, and individual counseling to support recovery goals.
Worked with advocacy groups, clinical and other service providers, community outreach services and law enforcement staff to gather information and support client needs.
Facilitated effective teamwork in council meetings and group projects by addressing each member's strengths and supporting personal growth.
Supported student learning objectives through personalized and small-group assistance.
Demonstrated to work with people from diverse ethnic groups and supported students with bilingual needs.
Mobilized problem-solving teams and supporting groups to streamline processes and drive clear business improvement.
Worked with individuals and groups of students to support academics and behavior management.
Managed group advocacy services for patients and community members to increase knowledge about domestic violence through use of supportive psycho-education in group-based modality.
Facilitated support groups for clients to discuss issues related to mental health.
Facilitated support groups and workshops to provide valuable services to clients.
Developed individualized and group programming and safety plans in support of academic achievement.
Facilitated support groups for patients and families dealing with chronic illnesses.
Interacted with children one-on-one and in small groups to enhance and support learning activities.
Assisted students in small group and one-on-one sessions to drive educational success and supported the achievement of learning objectives.
Facilitated client support groups to provide resources and assistance.
Maintained collaborative relationships with community groups and community leaders by supporting local initiatives and events.
Planned, coordinated, and facilitated bereavement groups and delivered ongoing compassionate support to the bereaved.
Facilitated referrals to variety of educational and support groups, individual counseling, and crisis response resources for bereaved families.
Peer Support Alumni Volunteer
Family First Adolescent Services
11.2018 - 12.2023
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Provided exceptional support for event management tasks, resulting in smoothly executed functions that exceeded expectations.
Facilitated communication between volunteers and staff members through regular updates via newsletters or social media platforms.
Supported public relations efforts by representing the organization at various community events, building positive relationships with potential supporters.
Communicated with staff members to stay informed about volunteer opportunities and events.
Supported engaging, fun, and smooth-running events by helping with organization and planning.
Participated in volunteer orientations and training sessions to learn about organizational changes and mission updates.
Provided administrative support to department leads to help organize events and fundraisers.
Coordinated and managed volunteer activities for community service projects.
Facilitated community outreach to expand participation and support.
Built partnerships with related organizations to develop support and gain greater attention for important issues.
Supported clients through development of new life skills, obtaining resources and transitioning back to society.
Intervened in crisis situations to obtain support for clients and reduce escalation or recurrence risks.
Assisted clients with obtaining housing, employment and support resources.
Gathered opinions and support from grass-roots supporters to solidify group position.
Caregiver Advocate & CRPS, F & A
Victory High Schools
04.2021 - 11.2023
Advocated for teens in recovery, their families, and identified caregivers.
Empowered and guided individuals through their unfortunate circumstances and always kept energies focused on hope and strength-based.
Thrived in fast-paced environments, using multiple training platforms from Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI) to Trauma Informed Coaching to meet each person served where they are.
Utilized strong active listening and motivational interviewing techniques to create trust, a safe place for connection with the end goal of empowering those served.
Contributed to the development of treatment plans for better mental health outcomes.
Enhanced client recovery by providing personalized support and sharing lived experiences.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care for each client.
Connected clients with appropriate community resources, facilitating their reintegration into society.
Maintained detailed case notes and documentation, ensuring accurate records of client progress and achievements.
Conducted peer-led support groups, fostering a safe and supportive environment for shared learning and growth.
Provided crisis intervention services when needed, deescalating situations and connecting clients with necessary resources.
Educated staff on the role of peer specialists, promoting understanding and collaboration within the team.
Developed rapport with diverse clients through active listening, empathy, and genuine connection.
Served as an advocate for clients during meetings and treatment planning sessions, ensuring their voices were heard and needs addressed.
Assisted clients in identifying personal strengths and setting realistic goals for their recovery journey.
Empowered clients by teaching them coping strategies and self-help techniques.
Provided emotional support to patients and their families during challenging times, fostering trust and strong relationships.
Facilitated smooth transitions between home care settings by coordinating services and communicating effectively with all parties involved.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in caregiving techniques, enhancing the quality of care provided.
Managed patient appointments and transportation needs, ensuring punctual arrival at medical visits and other engagements.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Marketing & Advertising
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, Illinois
05.1993
High School Diploma -
Charleston High School
Charleston, Illinois
05.1987
CRPS.0101022.AF
Florida Certification Board
Tallassee, TN
01.2022
National Certified Peer Specialist
Florida Certification Board
Tallahassee, FL
Skills
Group Facilitation
Time Management
Case Management
Active Listening, Motivational Interviewing
Accomplishments
2021 Recipient of Mayor's Unsung Hero's Award
Certification
eCPR
Mental Health First Aid
Trauma Informed Coaching
T.B.R.I.
Mental Health Ambassador
W.R.A.P. 1
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Caregiver Advocate & CRPS, F & A
Victory High Schools
04.2021 - 11.2023
Certified Recovery Peer Specialist, F & A
Florida Recovery Schools Of Central Florida
06.2019 - 01.2024
Peer Support Alumni Volunteer
Family First Adolescent Services
11.2018 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Science - Marketing & Advertising
Eastern Illinois University
High School Diploma -
Charleston High School
CRPS.0101022.AF
Florida Certification Board
National Certified Peer Specialist
Florida Certification Board
eCPR
Mental Health First Aid
Trauma Informed Coaching
T.B.R.I.
Mental Health Ambassador
W.R.A.P. 1
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