Liana Hicks
Hermitage,PA
Summary
Highly experience, innovative professional with a genuine interest in helping others reach their fullest potential. A self-driven individual with excellent communication skills who enjoys collaboration and teamwork.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Behavior Consultant
The Barber National Institute
Erie, PA
03.2023 - 05.2024
- Created individualized goals and objectives based on each client's needs.
- Instructed clients on how to effectively communicate with others.
- Collaborated with teachers, school counselors, physicians, and other professionals to ensure effective treatment plans.
- Monitored client progress utilizing data collection systems such as ABC charts and graphs.
- Developed and implemented behavior intervention plans for clients with challenging behaviors.
- Developed and implemented treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge.
- Prepared and maintained required treatment records and reports.
- Trained parents in techniques for reinforcing desired behaviors at home.
- Conducted assessments to identify the root causes of behavioral issues.
- Encouraged clients to express their feelings in a safe environment.
Student Support Coordinator, the Autism Initiative
Mercyhurst University
Erie, PA
08.2019 - 02.2023
- Advised a caseload of college students diagnosed with autism on academic, independent, social, emotional and career domains.
- Collaborated with the professional staff and faculty on a regular basis.
- Taught self-advocacy skills
- Co-created and taught a Healthy Relationships class
- Planned and chaperoned vocational exposure trips to Washington DC and the Grand Canyon
- Planned events on and off campus to promote social engagement and practice of social skills
- Attended a weekly lunch with the students
- Provided guidance and mentorship to new staff members.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
- Developed strategies for addressing behavioral issues within the classroom setting.
- Attended professional development workshops and classes.
- Provided individual counseling sessions to help students develop healthy coping skills and self-awareness.
- Created a safe learning environment by responding promptly to student concerns or issues as they arise.
- Established relationships with local organizations that provide additional resources for families in need.
- Educated faculty members on best practices related to supporting the needs of diverse learners.
- Monitored student progress and assisted students and professors with resolving problems.
IEP Facilitator
GECAC Head Start
Erie, PA
06.2011 - 06.2019
- Executed screenings, assessments of students suspected and/or identified as special needs
- Assisted in developing Individualized Education Plans (IEP)
- Implemented comprehensive preventative strategies and empirically based interventions
- Educated students with IEP's to make progress towards their individual goals through teaching, accommodations and progress monitoring
- Collaborated with teachers and staff on a daily basis
- Advised and assisted in developing and implementing transition plans
- Demonstrated a positive attitude toward all of the job responsibilities and interactions with staff and outside consultants
- Maintained strict confidentiality
- Conducted door to door and ongoing recruitment
Head Start Teacher
GECAC Head Start
Erie, PA
04.2010 - 06.2011
- Conducted home visits to assess family dynamics, health needs, and educational resources.
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance, behavior and academic performance.
- Utilized technology tools such as computers, tablets, and software programs to enhance instruction.
- Assisted with recruitment efforts
- Implemented behavior management strategies that encourage positive interactions between students within the classroom setting.
- Created an environment conducive to learning by providing a safe, nurturing atmosphere for students.
- Evaluated student performance data regularly to identify areas of improvement in instruction methods.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans to promote physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children in the Head Start program.
- Supported special education services as needed by collaborating closely with specialists assigned to each student's case.
- Provided guidance for children in developing appropriate problem-solving skills through classroom activities.
- Promoted language development through storytelling, singing songs, and engaging conversations with students.
Academic Counselor
GECAC
Erie, PA
11.2008 - 04.2010
- Organized workshops for parents and students to help them understand the college admissions process.
- Developed and implemented counseling strategies to assist students in academic, personal, social and career development.
- Assisted with college applications by providing advice on essay writing, financial aid opportunities and scholarships.
- Advised students on potential majors that align with their interests and capabilities.
- Established and enforced administration policies and rules governing student behavior.
- Directed and participated in recruitment and enrollment activities.
- Prepared students for later educational experiences by encouraging to explore learning opportunities and persevere with challenging tasks.
- Taught classes and presented self-help or information sessions on subjects related to education and career planning.
Special Education Teacher
Robert Benjamin Wiley Charter School
Erie, PA
08.2006 - 10.2008
- Instructed special education classes using evidence-based practices.
- Collaborated closely with related services providers such as speech therapists.
- Utilized technology resources such as online programs and assistive devices.
- Served as an advocate for special education students within the school system.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans for students with special needs.
- Adapted curriculum materials as needed to meet individualized student needs.
- Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
- Monitored the educational progress of each student according to established timelines.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored for individual student needs.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
Behavior Specialist Consultant
Achievement Centers for Children
Erie, PA
08.2005 - 10.2007
- Reviewed data related to student performance in order to identify trends or patterns in behavior.
- Conducted functional behavior assessments and developed positive behavior support plans.
- Maintained accurate records of all services provided including documentation of observations, interventions, referrals.
- Advised parents and guardians on how best to address their child's behavioral challenges at home.
- Developed behavior plans for students based on assessments of their needs.
Education
Master of Science - Special Education
Mercyhurst University
Erie, PA02-2006
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Gannon University
Erie, PA05-2001
Skills
- Critical thinking abilities
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Data collection and analysis
- Social Skills Development
- Self Motivation
- Time Management
- Positive reinforcement strategies
- Case Documentation
- Excellent Communication
- Interpersonal Skills
- Professional Demeanor
- Continuous Improvement
- Team Collaboration
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Organizational Skills
- Goal Setting
Certification
- Behavior Specialist License
Timeline
Behavior Consultant
The Barber National Institute
03.2023 - 05.2024
Student Support Coordinator, the Autism Initiative
Mercyhurst University
08.2019 - 02.2023
IEP Facilitator
GECAC Head Start
06.2011 - 06.2019
Head Start Teacher
GECAC Head Start
04.2010 - 06.2011
Academic Counselor
GECAC
11.2008 - 04.2010
Special Education Teacher
Robert Benjamin Wiley Charter School
08.2006 - 10.2008
Behavior Specialist Consultant
Achievement Centers for Children
08.2005 - 10.2007
Master of Science - Special Education
Mercyhurst University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Gannon University