Collaborative, enthusiastic leader and problem-solver dedicated to developing programs, resources, and elevating NAMI's mission, Offering more than 10 years of lived expertise, volunteer and professional experience within the NAMI Alliance.
Uses independent decision-making skills, and sound judgment to positively impact organization's success. Superb communications skills and compassionate nature enabling positive outcomes and bettering lives of the many individuals impacted by mental health and suicide-related challenges.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Manager
National Alliance On Mental Illness Connecticut
12.2019 - Current
Supervised, conducted performance evaluations; hiring to maintain appropriate staffing requirements for over three Research Assistants and Program Coordinators.
Developed curriculum and trained over 1000 law enforcement on Suicide Awareness for Connecticut's Crisis Intervention Team Training.
Designed graphics and media content for NAMI website, social platforms, and publications; Giving Tuesday Campaigns, local NAMIWalks, and Awareness months.
Identified program obstacles and communicated possible impacts to participants.
Managed and supervised administrative and daily program operations, complying with policies and regulations.
Coached team members, NAMI Affiliates, and volunteers on strategies to accomplish challenging goals.
Met with grant stakeholders on regular basis to assess progress and make adjustments.
Facilitated workshops and conducted one-on-one training to educate team members about mental health, suicide, and supporting key populations, such as emerging adults.
Conducted pilot surveys and revised programs based on feedback and results.
Worked with subject matter experts to develop and implement mentoring programs to promote better learner experiences in suicide prevention trainings, peer programs, and student mental health programs.
Built teams to address goals and objectives for multiple NAMI programs.
Researched best practices in support of training development, safe messaging, and program content.
Implemented evidence-based therapeutic interventions to help peers manage mental health difficulties.
Created detailed federal, state, and small grant and expense reports to facilitate reimbursement for business expenses incurred.
Prepared and submitted grant applications to corporate organizations, private foundations and NAMI Affiliates to solicit grant monies and donations for organization.
Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in team environment, especially with other NAMI Affiliates, State Organizations, and National Office.
Organized Young Adult Leadership Retreat for 25+ emerging leaders and developed sustainable NAMI Next Generation Advisory Council for NAMI Connecticut.
Young Adult Program Coordinator
National Alliance On Mental Illness Connecticut
09.2017 - 12.2019
Developed and maintained relationships with external partners to facilitate program operations.
Scheduled and supervised volunteer meetings to discuss new ideas and update participants on program details and milestones.
Kept program-related data accurate, up-to-date and easily accessible for accessibility.
Provided ongoing direction and leadership for program operations.
Analyzed program data by tracking and reporting program outcomes to identify areas of improvement.
Organized and managed program development from conception through successful execution.
Tracked and reported expenses accurately to manage program budgets.
Designed program implementation and maintenance plan.
Assisted with grant writing and fundraising efforts to secure funding and sustain program long-term.
Collaborated with other program coordinators to achieve consistency in program objectives and services.
Created and delivered program training and education for over 100 volunteers to keep participants knowledgeable about program and provide necessary skills to participate productively.
Planned and organized seminars, meetings and retreats.
Provided crisis intervention and emotional support to youth.
Coordinated youth programs, such as Ending the Silence, NAMI Young Adult Connection Community Groups, and monthly social activities to enhance life quality and self-esteem.
Established and maintained relationships with youth, families and community partners.
Supported individuals dealing with mental health and emotional issues.
Supported NAM on Campus events to increase student engagement and promote campus-wide initiatives;.
Collaborated with student and faculty teams to develop strategies for student outreach.
Organized private and public events on campus for college community.
Featured on NPR and other news outlets to represent NAMI and act as an expert in mental health, suicide, and recovery.
Peer Support Specialist
Community Health Center
07.2015 - 04.2018
Built relationships with others based upon trust and honesty by using active listening and dynamic communication skills.
Demonstrated extensive knowledge of recovery and wellness principles and shared this information with others struggling during recovery.
Assisted over 100 individuals in identifying and re-engaging with family, friends and other natural supports to build support system..
Transported individuals to medical appointments and support meetings whenever needed.
Participated in clinical staffing meetings and coordinated with clinical staff to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
Provided ongoing assessment, problem-solving and skill teaching to assist individuals with activities of daily living.
Increased awareness of and supported participation in self-help and advocacy organizations.
Fostered relationships with partner agencies and other interested parties to build pipeline of supportive services.
Listened to clients' concerns and provided encouragement and support.
Supported individuals dealing with mental health and emotional issues.
Provided emergency response in crisis situations to diffuse tensions and prevent violence.
Developed goal-oriented psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to improve clients' level of functioning.
Determined clients' risk of self-harm or other dangerous behaviors.
Developed treatment plans to help clients build self-confidence and resilience.
Facilitated group counseling sessions to support and encourage client growth.
Guided clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Wellness Recovery Action Planning, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Education
Certified Recovery Support Specialist - Peer Support
Developed life-changing Suicide Awareness Curriculum for Connecticut's Crisis Intervention Team Training, Department of Children and Families, and other organizations
Appointed Member and Co-Chair of the Lived Experience Committee for the Connecticut Suicide Advisory Board
Impact Session Speaker at NAMICon 2023 and 3 other conferences on "Why We Didn't Tell You" program
Served as Board Member and Vice President of NAMI Shoreline
Interview on Suicide Awareness: “The Full Story” WSHU Public Radio, the National Public Radio
Interview on Millennials & Depression: “Where We Live”,National Public Radio, Hartford, CT with Lucy Nalpathanchil
Interview on Pandemic Impact on Mental Health and Suicide Support: WTNH Channel 8 News
Interview on Youth Suicide: National Suicide Prevention Week: “WSHU Public Radio, the National Public Radio
Featured in several printed Newspaper and Online Publications, Available upon request
Timeline
Senior Manager
National Alliance On Mental Illness Connecticut
12.2019 - Current
Young Adult Program Coordinator
National Alliance On Mental Illness Connecticut
09.2017 - 12.2019
Peer Support Specialist
Community Health Center
07.2015 - 04.2018
Certified Recovery Support Specialist - Peer Support