Lasandra Buckner
Sidney
Summary
Results-driven criminal justice professional with over three decades of experience across correctional systems and behavioral health, now serving as a provisionally licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Brings extensive real-world expertise, training experience, and a student-centered approach to instruction. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Committed to preparing diverse learners for success through applied learning, critical thinking, and professional development.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Drug and Alcohol Counselor
Cirrus House Inc
Sidney
12.2024 - Current
- Deliver direct rehabilitation and support services to individuals within the community, facilitating stable community living.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement innovative programs that enhance overall community health.
- Conducted individual counseling sessions to support clients in recovery processes.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions encouraging peer support and shared experiences.
- Educated clients on coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques.
Executive Director
Keep Sidney Beautiful
06.2023 - 08.2024
- Oversee the administrative management and daily operations of the organization.
- Plan and manage programs to enhance community engagement and environmental awareness.
- Led community engagement initiatives to promote environmental awareness and sustainability.
- Developed partnerships with local businesses to enhance community involvement and support.
- Coordinated volunteer programs to support local beautification projects and events.
- Managed budgets for projects, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and funding.
- Oversaw the execution of educational programs on conservation and responsible waste management.
- Facilitated workshops to educate residents on sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Probation Officer
Nebraska Probation
09.2018 - 03.2022
- Manage a caseload of high-risk offenders, providing case planning and management.
- Participate in the treatment process and facilitate programs to support offender rehabilitation.
- Supervised probationers to ensure compliance with court-ordered conditions.
- Conducted risk assessments to evaluate probationer needs and challenges.
- Developed individualized treatment plans for diverse populations.
- Collaborated with community resources to facilitate rehabilitation services.
- Facilitated group sessions to promote accountability and personal growth.
- Coordinated with law enforcement agencies during investigations and visits.
- Provided crisis intervention support in high-stress situations.
- Developed case management plans for offenders, including referrals to community resources and services.
- Prepared reports summarizing activities conducted during supervision period.
Case Manager
Colorado Department of Corrections
10.2011 - 08.2018
- Act as an offender advocate, determining the most efficient methods to achieve case plan goals.
- Maintain regular interaction with offenders to coordinate necessary medical, mental health, and substance treatment.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of inmate needs and risks.
- Developed individualized case plans for inmate rehabilitation.
- Coordinated with legal and correctional staff on case management strategies.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions to promote inmate engagement.
- Monitored inmate progress and adjusted case plans as necessary.
- Documented case notes and maintained accurate records in compliance with regulations.
- Provided crisis intervention support when needed during inmate evaluations.
- Collaborated with community resources for post-release planning and support services.
- Coordinated with external providers such as mental health professionals, substance abuse counselors, probation officers and other court personnel.
- Educated clients on available resources within the community that can assist them with reintegration into society following release from custody or incarceration.
- Attended monthly team meetings to discuss caseloads and provide updates on client progress towards rehabilitation goals.
- Assessed and evaluated clients to identify needs, strengths, weaknesses, and risks.
- Participated in court hearings related to cases involving clients under supervision by providing testimony regarding their progress in treatment.
- Maintained contact with family members to ensure continuity of care for clients upon release from custody or incarceration.
Education
Master of Science - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ10-2025
Drug and Alcohol Counseling Licensing Certification -
Northeast Community College
Norfolk08-2025
Master of Arts - Christian Leadership
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix01-2024
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice Administration
Columbia College
Aurora05-2005
Associate of General Studies -
Community College of Aurora
Aurora05-1998
Skills
Facilitator Experience
- Colorado Department of Colorado Advanced Staff Trainer
- Colorado Transitional Accountability Plan Staff Coach
- Nebraska Probation Motivational Interviewing Staff Trainer
- True Colors Personality Test Certified Facilitator
Certification
- (PLADC) Provisional Drug and Alcohol Counselor License
- (ASI) Addictions Severity Index
- Real Colors
- Motivational Interviewing
- Staff Trainer
Timeline
Drug and Alcohol Counselor
Cirrus House Inc
12.2024 - Current
Executive Director
Keep Sidney Beautiful
06.2023 - 08.2024
Probation Officer
Nebraska Probation
09.2018 - 03.2022
Case Manager
Colorado Department of Corrections
10.2011 - 08.2018
Master of Science - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Grand Canyon University
Drug and Alcohol Counseling Licensing Certification -
Northeast Community College
Master of Arts - Christian Leadership
Grand Canyon University
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice Administration
Columbia College
Associate of General Studies -
Community College of Aurora