- Knitting and Crocheting
- Avid Reader
- Gardening
- I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
- I enjoy sketching and drawing, which helps improve my creativity and attention to detail
- Watching Movies and TV Shows
- I participate in low-impact exercises to strengthen core muscles
- Outdoor Recreation
- Offering time and support to shelters for the homeless, women, and animals
- Cooking
- Participating in local clean-up initiatives
Melissa Schreck
Waukesha,WI
Summary
Distinguished in the field of behavioral health with a notable tenure at Milwaukee Turners, I excel in leveraging peer support ethics and crisis intervention to guide clients towards recovery. My approach, rooted in empathy and effective problem-solving, has significantly enhanced client resilience and autonomy, showcasing my commitment to fostering emotional and mental wellness.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Peer Support Specialist
Milwaukee Turners
10.2023 - Current
- Served as a role model for clients, sharing personal experiences of recovery and resilience.
- Assessed client progress regularly, adjusting support strategies as needed to promote continued growth and success.
- Assisted clients in setting realistic goals and provided support during their journey towards achieving them.
- Built relationships with others based upon trust and honesty by using active listening and dynamic communication skills.
- Enhanced client recovery by providing emotional support and practical guidance.
- Developed trusting relationships with clients by maintaining confidentiality, respect, and non-judgmental attitudes.
- Empowered clients by teaching effective problem-solving skills that they can apply in real-life situations.
- Maintained accurate documentation of client interactions, supporting case management efforts.
- Advocated on behalf of clients to ensure access to appropriate resources and services within the community.
- Promoted a strengths-based approach for clients through active listening and empathy.
- Provided crisis intervention services when necessary, utilizing de-escalation techniques to maintain safety for all involved parties.
- Participated in clinical staffing meetings and coordinated with clinical staff to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
- Assisted individuals in identifying and re-engaging with family, friends and other natural supports to build support system..
- Transported individuals to medical appointments and support meetings whenever needed.
- Increased community awareness about mental health issues by participating in outreach events such as mental health fairs or informational presentations.
- Educated family members about mental health conditions and available resources, fostering understanding and support networks for clients.
- Attended classes and seminars to enhance knowledge of equipment and operating systems.
In-Home Support Service Worker
Home Helpers
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Maintained a high level of professionalism by adhering to established policies, procedures, and ethical guidelines within the in-home support services industry.
- Prepared nutritious meals suited to each client''s dietary restrictions, promoting optimal health outcomes.
- Enhanced client satisfaction by providing personalized in-home support services tailored to individual needs.
- Provided compassionate care to clients with various disabilities, fostering positive relationships and trust.
- Assisted clients with daily living activities, improving their overall quality of life and independence.
- Provided transportation assistance for clients'' appointments or errands, ensuring punctuality and safety at all times.
- Ensured a safe and comfortable environment for clients through regular home maintenance and organization tasks.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support for clients, including medication administration and vital sign monitoring.
- Performed laundry, grocery shopping and other light housekeeping duties as instructed by client.
- Assisted patients with dressing, grooming and feeding needs, helping to overcome, and adapt to mobility restrictions.
- Assisted disabled clients to support independence and well-being.
- Traveled to clients' homes to complete healthcare services and promote continuity of care.
- Operation of Hoyer Lift and other mobility devises.
- Catheter care
- Lymphatic drainage and compression equiptment
Hospice Caregiver
Private
12.2018 - 10.2019
- Adapted care approaches to meet the unique needs of each patient, ensuring individualized attention.
- Provided end-of-life care, including pain management and emotional support, to terminally ill patients.
- Assisted patients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.
- Exhibited empathy and patience when comforting patients and families during difficult times.
- Administered medication using automated dispensing systems to ensure accurate dosages.
- Fostered strong relationships with community partners such as churches, nursing homes, hospitals resulting in increased referrals for hospice services.
- Recognized signs of impending death, providing timely communication with both the hospice team and the patient''s family to prepare for final moments together.
- Assisted in maintaining patients'' dignity by addressing their emotional, spiritual, and physical needs.
- Educated family members on appropriate caregiving techniques for optimal patient comfort at home.
- Oversaw implementation and ongoing assessment of patient care plan.
- Participated in bereavement support groups as a volunteer facilitator, helping individuals cope with grief after losing loved ones under hospice care.
- Improved quality of life for terminally ill patients by performing routine personal care tasks, such as bathing, grooming, and feeding.
- Served as a liaison between the hospice care team and the patient''s primary healthcare provider to ensure seamless coordination of care.
- Offered respite care for family members, allowing them time to rest and recharge while ensuring continued patient support.
- Utilized effective time management skills to balance patient care, administrative tasks, and continuing education requirements.
- Implemented safety measures within the home setting to minimize risks associated with falls or other accidents during caregiving duties.
- Enhanced patient comfort by providing compassionate end-of-life care and support.
- Assisted in the organization of funeral arrangements and memorial services per family preferences.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary hospice team members to develop individualized care plans for each patient.
- Provided emotional support to patients'' families during the grieving process through active listening and empathetic communication.
ABA Specialist
Easterseals of Southeastern Wisconsin
03.2018 - 01.2019
- Reduced challenging behaviors in clients by utilizing evidence-based interventions and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Established rapport with clients, fostering trust in therapeutic relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Increased client progress by monitoring, tracking, and adjusting intervention strategies based on data analysis.
- Implemented visual schedules, prompting hierarchies, and other tools to facilitate successful transitions between activities for clients.
- Developed social skills programs that promoted interpersonal growth and relationship-building among clients.
- Partnered with schools to ensure coordinated services for students requiring ABA support in their education environments.
- Improved client communication skills by implementing ABA strategies and techniques in therapy sessions.
- Enhanced the overall reputation of the organization by maintaining a high standard of excellence in service delivery and client satisfaction.
- Conducted regular meetings with caregivers to discuss progress, challenges, and ongoing support needs related to ABA therapy implementation.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of best practices in the field of applied behavior analysis through continuous professional development opportunities.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care and support for clients with autism spectrum disorders.
- Implemented behavior intervention plans, increasing positive behaviors and reduce challenging behaviors.
Group Home Manager
Creative Community Living Services
03.2017 - 10.2018
- Ensured proper medication administration for all residents through close coordination with healthcare providers and careful record-keeping practices.
- Maintained adequate coverage for residents' needs without exceeding budget targets by coordinating schedules and team workflows.
- Developed trusting relationships with each resident through empathy-based interactions focusing on trust-building techniques.
- Kept accounts, resident files and regulatory paperwork current and accurate with diligent attention to administrative requirements.
- Oversaw home inventory of supplies and groceries by tracking use and placing new orders.
- Assisted staff with maintaining residents' health by scheduling medical appointments and arranging transportation.
- Mentored and coached staff to improve performance and interactions with residents.
- Ensured safety and well-being of residents, conducting regular home inspections and coordinating necessary maintenance.
- Maintained compliance with state regulations, completing detailed documentation for licensing requirements and audits.
- Assisted residents with basic hygiene and healthcare needs.
- Mentored new staff members, providing support and guidance in order to foster professional growth and development within their roles.
- Cultivated a positive living environment by organizing social events and outings designed to foster camaraderie among residents.
- Monitored direct care activities for optimal patient protections and infection control standards.
- Scheduled physician and other appointments for residents, providing transportation to each visit.
- Communicated effectively with residents, staff and other stakeholders by listening, being respectful and promoting positive demeanor.
- Provided ongoing support to families of residents through regular updates on progress made toward individual goals set forth in their care plans.
- Helped individuals with moderate to severe developmental disabilities carry out daily living tasks by coordinating expert support.
Caregiver
HomeCare Assistants of the North Shore
04.2016 - 02.2018
- Coordinated transportation and errands to support client independence and mobility.
- Delivered personal care services, promoting dignity and respect for individuals.
- Implemented individualized care plans to meet specific needs of clients.
- Created engaging activities that stimulated mental and physical wellness of clients.
- Assisted clients with activities of daily living, promoting independence and quality of life.
- Cleaned house, ran errands, managed laundry, and completed weekly grocery shopping.
- Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
- Performed light housekeeping duties to maintain cleanliness standards while respecting the patient''s personal space.
- Built strong relationships with clients to deliver emotional support and companionship.
- Engaged patients in meaningful conversation, socialization, and activity while providing personal care assistance.
- Maintained a safe and clean environment for patients, reducing risks and ensuring optimal health outcomes.
- Enhanced patient comfort by providing compassionate and attentive care, addressing individual needs and preferences.
Caregiver
Visiting Angels Home Care
06.2014 - 08.2016
- Coordinated transportation and errands to support client independence and mobility.
- Delivered personal care services, promoting dignity and respect for individuals.
- Provided companionship and emotional support by engaging in meaningful conversations and activities.
- Implemented individualized care plans to meet specific needs of clients.
- Created engaging activities that stimulated mental and physical wellness of clients.
- Assisted clients with activities of daily living, promoting independence and quality of life.
- Cleaned house, ran errands, managed laundry, and completed weekly grocery shopping.
- Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
- Performed light housekeeping duties to maintain cleanliness standards while respecting the patient''s personal space.
- Built strong relationships with clients to deliver emotional support and companionship.
- Engaged patients in meaningful conversation, socialization, and activity while providing personal care assistance.
- Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
- Assisted patients with self-administered medications.
- Provided emotional support to patients and their families during challenging times, fostering trust and strong relationships.
Psychiatric Technician/Occupational Therapy Aide
Waukesha County Mental Health Complex
04.2009 - 01.2011
- Assisted in development of recreational activities for patients to promote engagement and skill-building.
- Monitored patient behaviors, identifying changes and communicating findings to medical staff.
- Documented incidents and observations to provide comprehensive patient history.
- Collaborated with nursing staff to implement treatment plans for improved patient outcomes.
- Supported therapeutic programs by organizing materials and preparing spaces for activities.
- Implemented crisis intervention protocols when necessary, ensuring the safety of all patients and staff members involved.
- Developed strong rapport with diverse patient populations through empathetic listening skills, helping them feel heard and understood.
- Observed patients closely for signs of distress or changes in condition, promptly reporting concerns to supervising clinicians for appropriate intervention.
- Utilized de-escalation techniques to manage challenging behaviors effectively, promoting a calm atmosphere conducive to healing.
- Charted on each patient daily.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date documentation of patient progress, facilitating effective communication among healthcare team members.
- Ensured a safe and supportive environment for patients through close monitoring and crisis management techniques.
- Treated clients and families with respect and dignity.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies based on individual patient needs, contributing to improved functioning within daily life activities.
- Provided compassionate support to patients during group therapy sessions, fostering trust and open communication.
- Maintained strict confidentiality of patient information, adhering to HIPAA regulations and protecting individual privacy rights.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans, improving overall patient outcomes.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in psychiatric care.
ABA Technician
Wisconsin Early Autism Project
06.2004 - 02.2008
- Reduced maladaptive behaviors with the implementation of function-based interventions.
- Utilized evidence-based practices to deliver high-quality ABA services tailored to individual needs.
- Adapted instructional materials according to each client''s unique learning style and preferences for optimal success.
- Improved client communication by implementing visual supports and social stories.
- Maintained thorough documentation of client progress, session notes, and treatment plan updates for review by supervisory staff members.
- Contributed valuable input during team meetings regarding program modifications based on data analysis results.
- Equipped caregivers to be active participants in intervention through addressing specific goals, delivering coaching sessions and communicating with entire team.
- Assisted clients in developing effective coping strategies to manage stressors and emotional challenges.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the field of ABA therapy.
- Collaborated with multi-disciplinary teams for comprehensive treatment planning and implementation.
- Delivered services in diverse settings such as homes, daycare centers and other community settings and maintained confidentiality of information regarding children and families.
- Coached family members and caregivers on client support to facilitate active involvement and carry-over in both home and community settings.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology & The Behavioral Arts
Mount Mary College
Wauwatosa, WI06-2009
Skills
- Peer support ethics
- Recovery guidance
- Boundary setting
- Substance abuse awareness
- Rapport building and Emotional support
- Self-care management
- Problem-solving skills and Issue resolution
- Mental health advocacy and Crisis intervention
- Stress reduction and emotional regulation techniques
- Motivational interviewing & OARS
- Leadership skills and autonomy building
- Wellness recovery action plan
- Multicultural sensitivity and accomodations
Accomplishments
- Achieved consumer's goals through effectively helping with confidence building and emotional regulation skills.
- Achieved a certification in Certified Peer Specialist by completing continued education and exam with accuracy and efficiency.
- Proven dedication to the field with over 120 hours of continued education credits within the year.
Certification
- Peer Support Specialist Certification – Wisconsin
- Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training Certificate (ASIST)- LivingWorks Education.
- Multicultural Counseling Competency Certificate – Various Training Institutions.
- CPR/AED Certification
- OSHA Certified
- Home Health Aide (HHA) Certification
- Wisconsin Driver's License, insured and bonded
- First Aid Certification
- Mental Health First Aid Certification
- T-SBIRT Trauma Certification
- Resilience WI First Responder Training Certification
- QPR Certification
- Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy Certification
- 16 Hr MOUD Training Certification
Interests
Timeline
Peer Support Specialist
Milwaukee Turners
10.2023 - Current
In-Home Support Service Worker
Home Helpers
01.2023 - 12.2023
Hospice Caregiver
Private
12.2018 - 10.2019
ABA Specialist
Easterseals of Southeastern Wisconsin
03.2018 - 01.2019
Group Home Manager
Creative Community Living Services
03.2017 - 10.2018
Caregiver
HomeCare Assistants of the North Shore
04.2016 - 02.2018
Caregiver
Visiting Angels Home Care
06.2014 - 08.2016
Psychiatric Technician/Occupational Therapy Aide
Waukesha County Mental Health Complex
04.2009 - 01.2011
ABA Technician
Wisconsin Early Autism Project
06.2004 - 02.2008
Bachelor of Science - Psychology & The Behavioral Arts
Mount Mary College
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