With a proven track record at Arkansas Rehabilitation Services, I excel in vocational planning and fostering rehabilitation support, enhancing client self-sufficiency . My empathetic approach and strong vocational training skills have successfully guided numerous clients towards long-term workforce success, demonstrating my commitment to impactful rehabilitation services.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Interim Manager
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
10.2024 - Current
Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and patrons.
Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
03.2011 - Current
Assisted individuals with addressing disabilities and developing career plans.
Promoted development of interviewing, resume writing and etiquette skills.
Administered preliminary and comprehensive vocational assessments.
Coordinated community resources and secured referrals.
Advocated for reasonable accommodations, supporting clients in overcoming workplace barriers.
Implemented evidence-based practices in counseling sessions, fostering growth and positive change in clients'' lives.
Developed strong rapport with clients by demonstrating empathy and understanding of their unique challenges.
Conducted labor market research to better inform clients of potential career opportunities..
Supported clients during both pre-employment preparation and post-placement adjustment periods for long-term success in the workforce.
Provided guidance on job-search strategies, resulting in successful employment for numerous clients.
Participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on industry trends and emerging research findings.
Mentored new counselors within the agency, sharing expertise and assisting with their professional development.
Maintained thorough case documentation, ensuring accurate records and efficient service delivery.
Managed caseloads efficiently while adhering to ethical guidelines and maintaining high-quality service standards.
Enhanced client self-sufficiency by developing personalized vocational rehabilitation plans.
Monitored client progress through regular follow-up meetings, adjusting plans as needed for optimal success.
Child Abuse Investigator
Arkansas State Police
12.1998 - 03.2011
Interviewed children, members of families, medical personnel and law enforcement to gain valuable information for each case.
Conducted in-depth assessments to determine if children were safe from harm and abuse at home.
Documented all relevant information by filling out forms and completing case reports.
Devised and implemented safety plans for children suspected as victims of abuse or neglect.
Remained objective in handling each case, especially when children and families were in high-stress situations.
Assessed each child's unique needs and coordinated delivery of appropriate services and resources.
Worked with clients to improve life choices and maximize benefits of programs.
Detailed program operations and participant activities with comprehensive recordkeeping.
Educated potential participants on available services and processes to engage in program.
Family Services Worker
Arkansas Department Of Human Services
02.1992 - 03.1998
Completed home welfare checks to align with state and program guidelines.
Organized activities for birth parents and in-home support counselors.
Collaborated with community program leaders and advocates to make resources accessible to those in need.
Reported child abuse in accordance with legal standards of mandatory reporters.
Developed rapport to create safe and trusting environment for care.
Planned, promoted and managed parent workshops on assisting children in attaining academic success.
Built solid and trusting rapport with children and families, fostering trust and communication to meet case needs.
Interviewed individuals and families to assess needs and provide informational resources.
Resolved conflicts and negotiated mutually beneficial agreements between parties.
Education
Master of Science - Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling
SUNY At Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
05.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Philander Smith College
Little Rock, AR
05.1986
Skills
Vocational planning
Rehabilitation support
Rehabilitation techniques
Vocational Education
Rehabilitation plans
Rehabilitation services
Rehabilitation focus
Vocational training
Affiliations
Member, [Professional Organization Name], [Year] to Current
Certification
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification
Timeline
Interim Manager
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
10.2024 - Current
Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
03.2011 - Current
Child Abuse Investigator
Arkansas State Police
12.1998 - 03.2011
Family Services Worker
Arkansas Department Of Human Services
02.1992 - 03.1998
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification
Master of Science - Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling
SUNY At Buffalo
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Philander Smith College
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