Kathleen M. Doherty
Merrimac,MA
Summary
Experienced with crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques in high-stress environments. Utilizes strong communication and problem-solving skills to ensure safety and well-being. Track record of maintaining calm and order during emergencies, providing support and guidance to individuals in distress.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Crisis Interventionist
Methuen Public Schools
08.2021 - Current
- Immediate Crisis Response – Provide immediate support to students in crisis, including de-escalation, emotional regulation, and safety planning.
- Assessment & Intervention – Assess students’ emotional and mental health needs and implement appropriate intervention strategies.
- Collaboration with School Staff – Work with teachers, counselors, administrators, and special education staff to create and implement intervention plans.
- Individual & Group Support – Provide short-term counseling and coping strategies for students struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges.
- Behavioral Management – Assist in developing and implementing behavior intervention plans (BIPs) to support student success.
- Family Engagement – Communicate with parents/guardians regarding student concerns, interventions, and available community resources.
- Crisis Prevention – Conduct social-emotional learning (SEL) sessions, conflict resolution training, and restorative practices to prevent future crises.
- Documentation & Reporting – Maintain accurate records of crisis incidents, interventions, and follow-up plans while ensuring compliance with school policies.
- Referral to External Resources – Connect students and families with mental health professionals, social services, or other external support agencies.
- Training & Professional Development – Provide training for staff on crisis prevention, trauma-informed care, and de-escalation techniques.
Emergency Response Worker Hotline Investigator
Department of Children and Families
11.2011 - 09.2021
- Responding to emergency 51-As filed between the hours of 5pm and 8:45am when the office is closed
- Providing crisis intervention and safety/risk assessment after normal business hours
- Completion of written 51B investigation in a timely manner
Response Worker
Department of Children and Families
10.2017 - 08.2021
- Respond to emergencies that are directly related to allegations of neglect, physical abuse and sexual abuse of children
- Assess risk on behalf of abused and neglected children with supervisor, manager and at times the ongoing social work team
- Assessment of risk includes interview with parents, children, and collateral contact
- Initiate and participate in Sexual Abuse Investigations, including attending Team evaluations with local law enforcement and the District Attorney's office
- Screen 51A reports in accordance with DCF regulation and policy
- Partner with community agencies to provide support services to families and completing referrals for families in need
Social Worker A/B On-going Social Worker
Department of Children and Families
09.2007 - 09.2017
- Practicing case management duties for families who are involved with the Department for neglect and/or abuse of a child or children, including maintaining all necessary documentation and paperwork pertaining to each individual case
- Ensuring the safety of the child or children in a home setting
- Continuously assessing risk through contacts with involved professionals and monthly home visits
- Keeping the supervisor and/or manager involved in all concerns regarding risk to the children in the home
- Making referrals for services through both Family Networks and the community to connect parents and children with community supports to assist in stabilizing or reunifying a family
- Attending educational, legal, medical, psychological, and other various meetings
- Working cooperatively with foster parents and provide support, and referrals for services to avoid placement interruptions if possible
Intensive Foster Care Case Manager
Children Services of Roxbury
08.2006 - 09.2007
- Meet with all children placed in intensive foster homes on a weekly basis
- Assess the safety of the child in the home with the foster family and/or with other children in the home
- Maintain weekly collateral contacts with the DCF social worker, schools, and all collaterals involved with the child
- Keep DCF updated regarding concerns with the child
- Attend foster care review meetings at the Department of Children and Families, and all meetings pertaining to the child being serviced
- Assist with transportation for doctor’s appointments, school, and visits with their biological parents
- Maintain documentation of all visits, and any/all collateral contacts including meetings
- Ensure that the child in placement is up to date medically and dentally
- Assist the foster parent in ensuring this goal is met
Education
Bachelor of Social Work -
Sacred Heart University
Fairfield, CTSkills
- Behavioral management
- Family support
- Crisis assessment
- De-escalation techniques
- Behavioral health
- Teacher collaboration
Certification
Social Worker, 313658
Timeline
Crisis Interventionist
Methuen Public Schools
08.2021 - Current
Response Worker
Department of Children and Families
10.2017 - 08.2021
Emergency Response Worker Hotline Investigator
Department of Children and Families
11.2011 - 09.2021
Social Worker A/B On-going Social Worker
Department of Children and Families
09.2007 - 09.2017
Intensive Foster Care Case Manager
Children Services of Roxbury
08.2006 - 09.2007
Bachelor of Social Work -
Sacred Heart University
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