Maria Teresa Lara
Los Angeles,CA
Summary
Motivated Children's Social Worker passionate about building trust and rapport with clients through non-judgemental approach, patient demeanor and compassionate interpersonal skills.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Children's Social Worker
Department Of Children And Family Services
02.2016 - Current
- Assessed clients for abuse and neglect to compile documentation for court reports.
- Developed case plans and maintained confidential client files consistent with Departmental guidelines.
- Identified, documented and made referrals to resources available within community.
- Liaised with agencies and courts to provide safe, stable and nurturing homes for children.
- Conducted and documented in-home visits with children.
- Built solid and trusting rapport with children and families, fostering trust and communication to meet case needs.
- Documented data and completed accurate updates to case records.
- Assisted families in navigating the social services system, including applying for benefits, accessing resources and connecting with other family support services.
- Facilitated family meetings to ensure communication and collaboration between family members.
- Worked with educational team to develop Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students.
- Prepare court reports and legal notices
Office Coordinator - Operations and Purchasing
Murray Mechanical And Engineering Company
08.2008 - 02.2016
- Assist in the incorporation and transitioning phase of new company software
- Assist in interview and new hire process
- Train new employees and cross-train existing employees
- Report employee progress to management
- Streamlined office operations by implementing efficient filing systems and organizational tools.
- Enhanced communication within the team through regular meetings and detailed reporting.
- Facilitated a positive work environment by addressing employee concerns and providing support when needed.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA05.2013
Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts And General Studies
Long Beach City College
Long Beach, CA05.2009
Skills
- Child Advocacy
- Professional Ethics
- Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
- CWS/CMS
- Fluent in Spanish (Speaking, reading, writing)
OTHER EXPERIENCES
V.I.D.A. - Vital Intervention and Directional Alternative
Youth Counselor - Volunteer
Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department
http://www.vida.la
01/2009 - 01/2011
- Work closely with Deputies and staff to track participant's development
- Prepare detailed case notes for Deputies, staff and psychologists to review
- Teaching life skills to at-risk youth to help develop positive social behaviors
- Create a positive rapport with clients while maintaining a professional relationship
- Council students one-on-one and in group settings
- Complete intakes with new clients and their parent or guardian
- Develop weekly lesson plans and group activities
Timeline
Children's Social Worker
Department Of Children And Family Services
02.2016 - Current
Office Coordinator - Operations and Purchasing
Murray Mechanical And Engineering Company
08.2008 - 02.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
California State University - Dominguez Hills
Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts And General Studies
Long Beach City College
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