LARONDA SAWYER
McKinney,TX
Summary
Resourceful individual recognized for promoting human connections that meet patient and caregiver needs. An energetic Behavioral Health Specialist known for providing in-depth patient assessments, determining appropriate courses for treatment and delivering educational resources. A compassionate professional with dynamic organizational and decision making skills.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Behavioral Health Specialist
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Dallas, TX
01.2024 - Current
- I work full-time on 5 different units, mainly 2D-300 Men's Unit. Provided direct patient care in a behavioral health setting, including assessment and treatment of mental health issues. With a wide range of mental illness diagnoses. Assisted clients in developing coping skills to manage mental health issues.
- Monitored client progress through regular assessments and documented changes in behavior or symptoms, client vitals, bloodwork, and urine drug testing. Provide guidance regarding available community resources for further assistance.
- Conducted individual and group therapy sessions to address psychological and emotional issues. General Admission and discharge planning for all the patients, being Veterans. Developed and implemented treatment plans for individuals with mental health problems. Educated patients on healthy lifestyle choices that can improve physical and mental well-being.
- Provided crisis intervention services to individuals experiencing acute distress due to mental illness or trauma.
- Documented information for charts, progress reports, assessments and other paperwork within specific timeframes. Utilized electronic health records (EHR) to document patient interactions, treatment plans, and outcomes.
- Attended continuing education courses related to behavioral health topics. Participated in team meetings to discuss cases and review clinical decisions.
Mental Health Support Worker
UT Southwestern Hospital
Dallas, TX
02.2018 - Current
- I work (PRN) as needed in the Emergency Department, in the Psychiatric area. Conducted assessments of client needs, strengths and resources.
- Provided emotional and psychological support to clients in crisis situations. Monitored client progress towards meeting goals outlined in their treatment plan.
- Monitored client progress toward meeting goals outlined in their treatment plan. Observed safety protocols when working with potentially violent or suicidal individuals.
- Supported family members of clients by providing psychoeducation and counseling interventions. Attend training seminars related to mental health topics, such as trauma-informed care and substance abuse.
- Attended training seminars related to mental health topics such as trauma-informed care, substance abuse. Adhered to ethical standards set forth by professional organizations, such as the American Psychological Association.
- Maintained accurate records of client interactions using an electronic health record system. Adhered to HIPAA confidentiality requirements, safeguarding files. Collected information about clients through interviews, observation, or tests.
Mental Health Support Worker
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital
Dallas, TX
03.2022 - 06.2024
- I worked (PRN) on an Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit. Provided emotional and psychological support to clients in crisis situations. Ages 15 years old and older, adults.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions on topics such as anger management, coping skills, self-esteem. Monitored client progress towards meeting goals outlined in their treatment plan. Educated clients about mental health issues and available community resources.
- Collaborated with other professionals to coordinate services for clients.
- Maintained accurate records of client interactions using an electronic health record system. Monitored, evaluated, and recorded client progress with respect to treatment goals.
- Adhered to ethical standards set forth by professional organizations such as the American Psychological Association. Promoted suicide awareness by conducting proactive assessments and implementing interventions.
- Attended training seminars related to mental health topics such as trauma-informed care, substance abuse. Adhered to HIPAA confidentiality requirements by safeguarding files.
- Selected and compiled relevant information and resources for clients to support individuals in overcoming mental and emotional problems.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
University of Phoenix
Dallas, TX05-2026
Associate of Applied Science - General Studies
College of Southern Nevada
Las Vegas, NV05-2009
High School Diploma -
Montbello High School
Denver, CO05-1988
Skills
- Client coping mechanisms
- Professional ethics
- Assessment reports and other documentation
- Patient intakes
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavioral treatment services
- Crisis evaluation and intervention
- Group therapy facilitation
- Mental health evaluations
- Substance abuse disorders
Certification
- CPR/BLS- CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION/BASIC LIFE SUPPORT
- CPI- CRISIS PREVENTION INSTITUTE
- SAMA- SATORI ALTERNATIVES TO MANAGING AGGRESSION
- PMBD- PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENTOF DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR TRAINING
Timeline
Behavioral Health Specialist
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
01.2024 - Current
Mental Health Support Worker
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital
03.2022 - 06.2024
Mental Health Support Worker
UT Southwestern Hospital
02.2018 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
University of Phoenix
Associate of Applied Science - General Studies
College of Southern Nevada
High School Diploma -
Montbello High School
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