Linda Collins
Starke,FL
Summary
Compassionate and results-driven healthcare professional with 15+ years of clinical experience spanning surgical nursing, wound care, and patient care coordination. Certified in Addiction & Recovery and Mental Health First Aid, with specialized expertise in behavioral health advocacy and trauma-informed care. Experienced in supporting healthcare professionals through monitoring programs, regulatory processes, and recovery stabilization. Brings lived experience and a strong commitment to empowering individuals navigating mental health and recovery journeys.
Recovery professional bringing valuable experience in guiding individuals through their recovery journeys and fostering supportive community. Known for my collaborative approach and focus on achieving positive outcomes adapt seamlessly to changing needs. Key skills include empathetic listening, conflict resolution and motivational interviewing.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Peer Recovery Specialist
Meridian Behavioral Health
09.2025 - Current
- Facilitated peer support groups to promote recovery and emotional well-being.
- Developed individualized recovery plans in collaboration with clients and treatment teams.
- Provided guidance and resources to clients navigating behavioral health services.
- Conducted assessments to identify client needs and establish appropriate interventions.
- Facilitated peer support groups to promote recovery and resilience among individuals with substance use disorders.
Medical Assistant
SIMED Health
08.2021 - 07.2025
- Conduct patient intake, administer injections, and perform clinical procedures in a high-volume setting
- Coordinate referrals, insurance authorizations, and scheduling to ensure continuity of care
- Maintain accurate EMR documentation and manage patient follow-ups
Patient Care Manager
Mederi Caretenders
01.2020 - 01.2020
- Coordinated communication between physicians, clinicians, and patients to streamline care delivery
- Prepared detailed documentation for case conferences and care planning
- Managed physician orders and discharge processes to ensure compliance and efficiency
RN, Wound Care Specialist
Riverwood Health & Rehab
01.2016 - 01.2020
- Performed comprehensive wound assessments and developed individualized treatment plans
- Managed complex cases including pressure ulcers, burns, and surgical wounds
- Trained staff on wound care protocols, improving patient safety and outcomes
Surgical RN / Charge Nurse
Multiple Florida Hospitals
01.2003 - 01.2016
- Circulated across multiple surgical specialties including trauma and neurosurgery
- Supervised clinical teams and mentored new nurses as a preceptor
- Maintained sterile environments and supported physicians during surgical procedures
Education
Associate of Science - Nursing
Santa Fe Community College
Bachelor of Arts - Clinical Psychology, Addection And Recovery
Liberity University
05-2026
Skills
- Behavioral Health Support
- Addiction & Recovery Advocacy
- Trauma-Informed Communication
- Patient Advocacy & Case Coordination
- Healthcare Compliance & Documentation
- EMR Systems
- Dual Diagnosis Awareness
- IPN Monitoring Program Navigation
- AHCA & DCF Exemption Assistance
- Motivational interviewing
- Relapse prevention
Certification
- Addiction & Recovery Certification – Light University
- Mental Health First Aid
- CPR / BLS Certified
- National Wound Care Certification
ADVOCACY & RECOVERY SUPPORT
- Guide healthcare professionals through Board of Nursing disciplinary processes
- Provide support navigating the Florida IPN monitoring program
- Assist with AHCA and DCF exemption applications
- Advocate for individuals managing dual diagnosis and recovery stabilization
RECOVERY ADVOCACY
Recovery advocate with five years of sustained sobriety, combining lived experience with clinical expertise to support individuals in behavioral health and recovery journeys.
Timeline
Peer Recovery Specialist
Meridian Behavioral Health
09.2025 - Current
Medical Assistant
SIMED Health
08.2021 - 07.2025
Patient Care Manager
Mederi Caretenders
01.2020 - 01.2020
RN, Wound Care Specialist
Riverwood Health & Rehab
01.2016 - 01.2020
Surgical RN / Charge Nurse
Multiple Florida Hospitals
01.2003 - 01.2016
Associate of Science - Nursing
Santa Fe Community College
Bachelor of Arts - Clinical Psychology, Addection And Recovery
Liberity University