Hi, I’m
Lori Thomas
Domestic Violence Advocate
Bloomington,IL
Summary
Accomplished Domestic Violence Advocate and Drug and Alcohol Counselor with a proven track record at Mid Central Community Action and Chestnut Health Systems. Expert in victim advocacy and substance abuse knowledge, leveraging excellent communication and problem-solving skills to enhance client recovery rates and safety. Achieved significant improvements in multidisciplinary team collaborations and client outcomes.
Overview
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Mid Central Community Action
Domestic Violence Advocate
07.2019 - Current
Job overview
- Provided crisis intervention services, offering immediate support and guidance to individuals experiencing domestic violence situations.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to address clients'' unique needs, resulting in more tailored interventions and improved outcomes.
- Participated in ongoing professional development activities, enhancing knowledge base related to best practices in domestic violence prevention and response efforts.
- Enhanced client self-sufficiency through comprehensive case management services, including referrals to housing and employment opportunities.
- Conducted regular safety audits of facilities and procedures, maintaining a secure environment for staff and clients alike.
- Improved survivor safety by developing personalized safety plans and providing resources for legal assistance.
- Maintained detailed case records, contributing to efficient communication among team members and effective coordination of client care.
- Facilitated support groups for survivors, fostering a safe environment for sharing experiences and healing strategies.
- Empowered clients through advocacy efforts, ensuring their voices were heard by medical professionals, law enforcement personnel, and social service providers.
- Implemented trauma-informed practices across all aspects of service delivery, promoting healing and resilience among survivors of domestic violence.
Chestnut Health Systems
Drug and Alcohol Counselor
10.2017 - 06.2019
Job overview
- Facilitated group therapy sessions for diverse clientele, promoting peer support and healthy coping mechanisms.
- Established strong rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds and demographics, fostering an atmosphere of trust for open communication during counseling sessions.
- Conducted substance abuse assessments and screenings to accurately identify client needs and appropriate levels of care required.
- Streamlined case management processes to reduce administrative burden and increase time spent providing direct client services.
- Expanded community outreach efforts, resulting in increased awareness of available substance abuse resources and prevention initiatives.
- Promoted a safe therapeutic environment that fostered trust between clients and counselors by setting clear boundaries and expectations.
- Mentored new counselors by sharing best practices, contributing to a positive team environment and continuous professional development opportunities.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop holistic treatment plans addressing the unique needs of each client.
- Improved client recovery rates by implementing evidence-based counseling techniques and individualized treatment plans.
- Ensured compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing addiction counseling practices through meticulous record-keeping procedures.
- Developed targeted intervention strategies for at-risk individuals, resulting in increased engagement and participation in treatment programs.
- Assisted families in understanding addiction-related issues, fostering supportive environments during the recovery process.
- Supported and assessed clients struggling with addiction or relationship issues and devised strategies based on client needs.
- Monitored client progress to make necessary adjustments for client success.
- Supported aftercare planning for continued recovery after treatment.
- Provided crisis intervention to address clients' immediate needs and prevent harmful behaviors.
Education
Bloomington High School Bloomington Illinios, Bloomington, IL
High School Diploma
06.1992
Skills
- Victim advocacy
- Mental health awareness
- Substance Abuse Knowledge
- Human Trafficking Awareness
- Sexual assault response
- Data Collection
- Self-care strategies
- Safety Planning
- Shelter arrangements
- Problem-Solving
- Multitasking
- Excellent Communication
- Team Collaboration
- Active Listening
- Case Documentation
- Decision-Making
- Goal Setting
- Professional Demeanor
- Treatment Planning
Timeline
Domestic Violence Advocate
Mid Central Community Action
07.2019 - Current
Drug and Alcohol Counselor
Chestnut Health Systems
10.2017 - 06.2019
Bloomington High School Bloomington Illinios
High School Diploma
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