Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Interests
Timeline
Generic

NICOLE BLACK

Reno,NV

Summary

Dedicated and empathetic Peer Support Specialist with a proven track record at the Department of Veterans Affairs, leveraging expert recovery guidance and exceptional rapport-building skills to foster resilience and wellness. Achieved significant client progress through motivational interviewing and crisis intervention, enhancing mental health advocacy and support within the community.

Performance-focused Medical Support Assistant offering broad-based experience in medical administration and patient care management. Talented at building and cultivating professional relationships, coordinating appointments and performing wide range of treatment procedures. Well-defined communication, technical and analytical aptitudes.

Ambitious Advanced Medical Support Assistant with hands-on experience in preparing the facility for clinical visits and performing required patient, insurance, and billing paperwork. A sound understanding of insurance company liaison procedures.

Healthcare professional with strong background in providing administrative support in medical environments. Proven ability to manage high-volume patient interactions and ensure accurate and timely documentation. Reliable team player focused on achieving efficient workflows and adapting to changing needs. Skilled in electronic health records management and patient communication.

Attentive Advanced Medical Support Assistant with a 30+year background working in the medical field. Excellent patient scheduling and medical billing abilities. In-depth understanding of privacy regulations.

Experienced with administrative support in medical settings, ensuring smooth patient interactions and efficient operations. Utilizes strong organizational skills and attention to detail to manage healthcare processes effectively. Knowledge of electronic health records, appointment scheduling, and patient communication to enhance service quality.

Offering excellent interpersonal skills and keen ability to learn and develop in medical office environment. Brings foundational understanding of administrative tasks and patient communication, ensuring efficient and compassionate patient care. Ready to use and develop skills in patient scheduling and medical record management in [Desired Position] role.

Experienced Medical Assistant with extensive knowledge of medical regulations and policies. Offers strong dedication to informed patient care, administrative excellence and confidentiality.

Highly motivated and committed Medical Assistant with proven history of superior performance at individual, team and organizational levels. Multitasks and prioritizes workloads with little or no supervision. Detail-oriented professional looking to bring medical background and team-building skills to deadline-driven environment.

Experienced medical support professional prepared for responsibilities of this role. Known for strong team collaboration, adaptability, and achieving results. Skilled in patient scheduling, electronic health records management, and medical billing. Valued for reliability, communication skills, and ability to meet evolving needs.

Developed skills in fast-paced healthcare environment, focusing on patient coordination and administrative support. Expertise in managing patient information and coordinating appointments, ensuring seamless operations. Looking to transition these skills into new field, aiming to contribute to organizational success and patient satisfaction.

Possessing strong organizational skills and positive, upbeat attitude. Demonstrates thorough understanding of medical office procedures and proficiency in patient scheduling systems, ensuring smooth clinic operations. Committed to enhancing patient care and operational efficiency through effective communication and meticulous attention to detail.

Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.

Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Peer Support Specialist

Department of Veterans Affairs
02.2021 - 10.2024
  • 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.
  • Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to encourage clients to engage in healthy behaviors.
  • Demonstrated extensive knowledge of recovery and wellness principles and shared this information with others struggling during recovery.
  • Promoted a strengths-based approach for clients through active listening and empathy.
  • Encouraged self-care among peers by facilitating wellness workshops focused on stress reduction techniques like mindfulness exercises or yoga classes.
  • Provided crisis intervention services when necessary, utilizing de-escalation techniques to maintain safety for all involved parties.
  • Provided ongoing assessment, problem-solving and skill teaching to assist individuals with activities of daily living.
  • Fostered relationships with partner agencies and other interested parties to build pipeline of supportive services.
  • Participated in clinical staffing meetings and coordinated with clinical staff to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
  • Facilitated peer support groups, creating a safe space for open discussion and shared experiences.
  • Assisted individuals in identifying and re-engaging with family, friends and other natural supports to build support system..
  • Increased awareness of and supported participation in self-help and advocacy organizations.
  • Observed strict regulations and procedures regarding each individual to maintain confidentiality of personal and health information.
  • Maintained computers, printers and technical resources to avoid disruption in operations.
  • Transported individuals to medical appointments and support meetings whenever needed.
  • Communicated with individuals' family members, offering information, and insight into support services available at community level.
  • 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.
  • Coordinated with treatment providers on individual client cases ensuring continuity of care throughout the entire process.
  • Attended classes and seminars to enhance knowledge of equipment and operating systems.
  • Contributed to program improvement by conducting evaluations of service delivery methods and suggesting modifications based on client feedback.
  • Encouraged client participation in therapeutic activities, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
  • Recommended upgrades and equipment replacement to reduce technical issues.
  • Supported clients in maintaining employment by providing job coaching and assistance with workplace accommodations.
  • Boosted client confidence and social skills by organizing community integration activities.
  • Assisted clients in navigating mental health services, simplifying process of obtaining care.
  • Monitored and reported on client progress, providing valuable feedback for continuous program improvement.
  • Facilitated peer support groups, creating safe environment for sharing and growth.
  • Advocated for clients' needs within mental health system, ensuring access to necessary services.
  • Collaborated with healthcare professionals to ensure holistic approach to client care.
  • Provided crisis intervention services, significantly reducing emergency incidents among clients.
  • Increased awareness of mental health resources in community through outreach efforts.
  • Enhanced team knowledge on recovery-oriented care by leading training sessions for new staff members.
  • Conducted workshops on coping strategies, equipping clients with tools for managing stress and anxiety.
  • Documented client interactions and outcomes, maintaining accurate and confidential records.
  • Streamlined peer support service delivery by contributing to development of program policies and procedures.
  • Helped Clients find affordable housing.
  • Served as role model for recovery, inspiring clients with personal success stories and resilience.
  • Improved client engagement with treatment plans by establishing trust and rapport through one-on-one support sessions.
  • conducted routine inspections of Clients housing.
  • Transported Clients to and from appointments.
  • Participate in annual homeless count.
  • Enhanced client self-reliance by developing and implementing personalized recovery plans.

Advanced Medical Support Assistant

Department of Veterans Affairs
01.2012 - 02.2021
  • Maintained strict compliance with HIPAA regulations, ensuring the protection of sensitive patient information.
  • Promoted effective communication among medical staff by serving as a reliable liaison between physicians, nurses, and administrative personnel.
  • Managed high call volume, addressing patient inquiries and concerns with professionalism and empathy.
  • Provided exceptional customer service to patients, visitors, and colleagues, fostering a welcoming environment at all times.
  • Assisted in training new staff members on clinic policies, procedures, and software systems for seamless integration into the team.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction by efficiently managing appointment schedules and providing timely reminders.
  • Provided backup support to office staff by completing billing and filing tasks, answering phones and scheduling appointments.
  • Determined nature and urgency of patient requests to refer patients to appropriate medical staff.
  • Mailed patient appointment letters.
  • Increased patient access to care by effectively coordinating referrals to specialists and diagnostic services.
  • Verified and updated clinical records.
  • Supported efficient office operations through proficient handling of administrative tasks such as filing, data entry, and record maintenance.
  • Used various medical software to maintain and record patient data and generate reports.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient care and facilitate seamless transitions between departments.
  • Contributed to increased clinic efficiency by accurately maintaining electronic health records and promptly updating patient information.
  • Streamlined front desk operations for improved workflow and reduced wait times.
  • Eased patient anxiety through clear explanation of procedures, treatments, and upcoming appointments while addressing their concerns respectfully.
  • Reduced errors in billing by diligently verifying insurance coverage and obtaining necessary prior authorizations for procedures.
  • Maintained and obtained medical records.
  • Contributed to higher patient retention rates by consistently delivering compassionate care during check-in/check-out processes.
  • Organized patient records to research records, extract medical information and review records for completeness and accuracy.
  • Interviewed patients to verify and update clinical and demographic records.
  • Facilitated positive relationships with external providers through effective coordination and communication of patient referrals.
  • Maintained a strong understanding of insurance policies, enabling prompt resolution of billing discrepancies and reduced claim denials.
  • Handled prescription refills requests promptly under the supervision of healthcare providers for improved medication adherence among patients.
  • Improved office productivity by organizing supplies inventory management system resulting in lower costs.
  • Directed patients to exam rooms, fielded questions, and prepared for physician examinations.
  • Performed medical records management, including filing, organizing and scanning documents.
  • Assisted physicians with minor surgeries, including preparing operating room and sterilizing instruments.
  • Answered telephone calls to offer office information, answer questions, and direct calls to staff.
  • Collaborated with medical and administrative personnel to maintain patient-focused, engaging, and compassionate environment.
  • Liaised with patients and addressed inquiries, appointment requests and billing questions.
  • Implemented care and efficiency improvements to support and enhance office operations.
  • Assisted with routine checks and diagnostic testing by collecting and processing specimens.
  • Explained procedures to patients to reduce anxieties and increase patient cooperation.
  • Oriented and trained new staff on proper procedures and policies.

Certified Paraoptometric Technician

Department Of Defence
11.2008 - 11.2011
  • Ensured optimal visual acuity for patients by accurately measuring pupillary distance and ocular measurements.
  • Strengthened relationships between the optometry practice and local schools by organizing educational events on eye health awareness among students and teachers alike.
  • Developed strong rapport with patients through attentive listening skills, compassionate communication, and professional demeanor during appointments.
  • Enhanced overall patient experience through active participation in ongoing training programs designed to expand paraoptometric knowledge and skills.
  • Contributed to the success of the optometry practice by consistently meeting or exceeding performance goals in key areas such as customer service, sales, and efficiency.
  • Reduced wait times for patients by streamlining paraoptometric processes and improving patient flow.
  • Increased practice revenue by effectively managing optical inventory and promoting high-quality products to patients.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, adhering to strict hygiene standards for the safety of patients and staff.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing thorough pre-testing and efficient eye care services.
  • Assisted optometrists with sports vision training sessions, helping athletes improve visual acuity and reaction time for enhanced performance in their respective sports.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service through prompt attention to patient inquiries via phone or email, ensuring timely resolution of any concerns or issues related to eye care services.
  • Streamlined appointment scheduling processes, leading to improved accessibility for both new and existing patients seeking eye care services.
  • Improved patient experience with comprehensive education on eyewear options and proper lens care techniques.
  • Collaborated closely with optometrists to develop customized treatment plans for patients with complex vision needs or medical conditions affecting their eyesight.
  • Conducted thorough contact lens trainings with first-time wearers, resulting in increased patient comfort and successful adaptation to new lenses.
  • Assisted optometrist in delivering top-quality eye care by conducting accurate diagnostic tests.
  • Demonstrated expertise in various types of ophthalmic equipment, ensuring accurate test results vital for diagnosing ocular disorders or diseases.
  • Supported office administration tasks such as billing, insurance claims processing, and appointment scheduling to ensure smooth operations within the practice.
  • Managed administrative duties with phone reception, appointment scheduling and payment processing.
  • Operated and maintained lensometers, refraction units, auto-refractors, and visual field analyzers for patient testing.
  • Input patient information and exam findings into electronic medical records system to facilitate accurate record-keeping.
  • Conducted pretest procedures to gather data before exam and make eye appointments more efficient and productive.
  • Coordinated patient scheduling, monitored patient flow throughout office and properly communicated delays.
  • Collaborated with optometry staff to reach individual and team goals.
  • Filled and dispensed eyeglass prescriptions, fitting frames, lenses and contact lenses for comfort and convenience.
  • Instructed patients on contact lens insertion and removal and lens care guidelines.
  • Helped patients with selecting and ordering glasses or contact lenses to encourage informed decisions.
  • Maintained inventory levels and accurate records of contact lenses and eyeglass frames.
  • Acquainted patients with procedures and explained purpose of testing to establish consent.
  • Assisted with dilating patients or using eye medications when directed by optometrist.
  • Performed ancillary testing when ordered by optometrist and thoroughly explained procedures to patients.
  • Gathered patient histories, took measurements and completed diagnostic tests as part of detailed ophthalmic evaluations.
  • Identified issues during preliminary exam and addressed concerns with physician.
  • Promoted positive and smooth patient flow throughout facility, encouraging more efficient operations and boosting patient satisfaction.
  • Directed patients to exam rooms for initial evaluations and intake to aide physicians with carrying out efficient appointments.
  • Worked well with patients, staff, and manufacturer representatives to carry out successful office- and patient-related work each day.
  • Educated patients and relations on ocular health and safety, promoting good eye care.
  • Cleaned or sterilized ophthalmic or surgical instruments.
  • Serviced, repaired and maintained ophthalmic equipment to keep instruments and tools in good condition.
  • Helped prepare specimens and slides for laboratory analysis, facilitating fast diagnoses and treatment.
  • Provided patients with detailed instructions for pre- and post-op care under physician supervision to promote healing and optimal recovery strategies.

Education

Certified Paraoptometric

American Optometric Association
Raeford, NC
02-2003

High School Diploma -

Mount Olive High School
Duarte, CA
12-1990

Skills

  • Peer support ethics
  • Recovery guidance
  • Boundary setting
  • Substance abuse awareness
  • Rapport building
  • Self-care management
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Stress reduction techniques
  • Mental health advocacy
  • Relationship building skills
  • Arranging transportation
  • Mental health services
  • Leadership skills
  • Relapse prevention
  • Wellness recovery action plan
  • Recovery planning
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Effective collaboration and interaction
  • Empathy development
  • Relationship cultivation
  • Multicultural sensitivity
  • Social activity planning
  • Planning skills
  • Service navigation
  • Issue resolution
  • Family assistance
  • Communication
  • Community services information
  • Positive environment facilitation
  • Exemplary communication
  • Emotional support
  • Conflict resolution
  • Documentation and reporting
  • Mental health support
  • Group facilitation
  • Coping methods
  • Treatment plans
  • Crisis management
  • Crisis intervention
  • Decision-making
  • Patient referrals
  • Data confidentiality
  • Community resources specialist
  • Team collaboration
  • Care planning
  • File and record keeping
  • Staff training
  • Interpersonal communication
  • Crisis response
  • Case management proficiency
  • Referral coordination
  • Positive patient experiences
  • Case management
  • Patient intake
  • Client needs assessment

Certification

  • Peer Support Specialist Certification – SAMHSA
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification - American Heart Association or Red Cross.
  • Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) - Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

Interests

  • I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
  • Offering time and support to shelters for the homeless, women, and animals
  • Growing herbs, vegetables, or fruits in home gardens
  • Crafting homemade beer using specialized equipment and brewing techniques
  • Animal Welfare Advocacy
  • Passionate about balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness
  • I like trying new recipes and food trends
  • Baking
  • Animal Care
  • Horseback Riding
  • Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
  • Crafting and DIY Projects
  • DIY and Home Improvement
  • Mindfulness Practices
  • Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
  • Volunteering
  • Volunteering for community initiatives to give back to local communities and make a positive impact
  • Homelessness Outreach

Timeline

Peer Support Specialist

Department of Veterans Affairs
02.2021 - 10.2024

Advanced Medical Support Assistant

Department of Veterans Affairs
01.2012 - 02.2021

Certified Paraoptometric Technician

Department Of Defence
11.2008 - 11.2011

Certified Paraoptometric

American Optometric Association

High School Diploma -

Mount Olive High School
NICOLE BLACK