Marlen Contreras
Salida,CA
Summary
Forensic social work professional prepared to contribute to complex social and legal cases. Social Worker with comprehensive knowledge of social justice issues and systems affecting marginalized communities. Passionate about developing and facilitating programs to support communities in need. Collaborative and analytical advocate builds strategic partnerships, advocate for clients, and advance change for communities in need. Experienced with comprehensive client assessments and tailored intervention strategies. Known for collaborative teamwork and adaptability in dynamic environments, excelling in crisis intervention and detailed case documentation.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Forensic Social Worker IV
Stanislaus County Public Defender's Office
11.2023 - Current
- Interviewed clients, families, or groups to assess situations, limitations and issues and implement services to address needs.
- Developed tailored intervention plans for clients, addressing their unique needs and risk factors.
- Maintained meticulous case documentation, ensuring confidentiality while adhering to professional standards and ethical guidelines.
- Enhanced interagency collaboration by facilitating communication between legal, medical, and mental health professionals.
- Continually expanded professional knowledge through ongoing training, workshops, and participation in industry conferences to stay current on best practices in forensic social work.
- Collaborated with external service providers to secure additional support for clients such as housing assistance, vocational training, or substance abuse treatment programs.
- Increased client engagement in treatment programs by establishing rapport and building trust through empathetic listening and compassionate care.
MSW Clinical Intern
Turlock Unified School District
08.2022 - 05.2023
- Supported client transitions by coordinating discharge planning and linking individuals with appropriate community resources.
- Improved coping skills among clients experiencing depression or anxiety symptoms through the application of cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques.
- Reduced risk factors by providing crisis intervention services to clients experiencing mental health emergencies.
- Assessed for suicidality, self-harm, or harm to others, implementing appropriate safety planning measures when necessary.
- Advanced cultural competence within the agency by delivering culturally sensitive services to diverse populations.
- Improved client outcomes by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing tailored intervention plans.
- Participated in case conferences and clinical supervision sessions to discuss complex cases, receive feedback, and enhance professional development.
- Increased client engagement in treatment by building rapport and establishing trust through empathic listening and validation.
- Maintained accurate documentation for each client, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and confidentiality guidelines.
- Wrote notes, completed documentation for referrals and maintained case files.
MSW Student Intern
West Modesto Community Collaborative
08.2021 - 05.2022
- Connected at-risk youth to mental health services by conducting referrals as needed based on assessment findings.
- Maintained accurate case records, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and confidentiality practices.
- Supported individuals experiencing homelessness through outreach efforts and assistance with basic needs fulfillment.
- Coordinated community events that promoted social connectedness among different age groups.
- Built rapport with diverse populations using active listening skills and cultural sensitivity in all interactions.
- Led workshops on topics such as stress management or healthy relationships, equipping participants with valuable life skills.
- Conducted home visits to assess clients' home environment and provide support.
- Participated in professional development and training opportunities to enhance clinical skills.
Education
Master of Arts - Social Work
California State University, Stanislaus
Turlock, CA05.2024
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
California State University, Stanislaus
Turlock, CA05.2018
Skills
- Psychosocial Assessments
- Legal Documentation
- Forensic Interviewing
- Community Resources
- Case Documentation
- Client Advocacy
- Client Confidentiality
- MS Office
- Fluent in Spanish
- Community Referrals
- Treatment Planning
Certification
- ASW- 125213 (Issue date: 8/15/2024)
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Forensic Social Worker IV
Stanislaus County Public Defender's Office
11.2023 - Current
MSW Clinical Intern
Turlock Unified School District
08.2022 - 05.2023
MSW Student Intern
West Modesto Community Collaborative
08.2021 - 05.2022
- ASW- 125213 (Issue date: 8/15/2024)
Master of Arts - Social Work
California State University, Stanislaus
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
California State University, Stanislaus
Similar Profiles
Sydney MachadoSydney Machado
Job shadow at Chesterfield County Public Defender's OfficeJob shadow at Chesterfield County Public Defender's Office
Lauren PizzichemiLauren Pizzichemi
Clerk/Typist at Lackawanna County Public Defender's OfficeClerk/Typist at Lackawanna County Public Defender's Office
Despo BaltoumasDespo Baltoumas
Legal Secretary at Franklin County Public Defender's OfficeLegal Secretary at Franklin County Public Defender's Office