Nicole Jones
Transformative Neurodivergent Coach
Douglasville,Georgia
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate professional with 20+ years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Specializing in inclusive, accessible, and tech-driven solutions, I blend expertise in psychoeducational development, trauma-informed coaching, therapeutic counseling, and emotional support with a strong focus on leveraging AI and digital tools to enhance quality of life. My background includes leadership roles such as Planning List Administrator and Inclusion Support Systems Advisor, equipping me with in-depth knowledge of individualized care, policy implementation, and resource navigation.
I provide transformational coaching tailored to neurodivergent teens, adults, and families, facilitating strengths-based goal setting, self-advocacy, and skill development. I advocate for clients across educational, healthcare, and community systems, offering guidance on life skills, social skills, emotional regulation, and crisis prevention. My mission is to bridge human-centered care with innovative AI solutions, empowering individuals, families, and professionals with practical tools for growth, independence, and resilience.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Neurodivergent Transformational Coach
Resilient & Rising
11.2018 - Current
- Provide individualized transformational coaching for neurodivergent and IDD teens, adults, and their families.
- Facilitate strengths-based goal setting to promote personal growth, independence, and self-advocacy.
- Support clients in developing essential life skills, social skills, and emotional regulation strategies.
- Offer family coaching to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and foster understanding within the household.
- Advocate for clients' needs within educational, healthcare, and community systems.
- Assist families in navigating resources, services, and supports tailored to neurodivergent and IDD individuals.
- Provide guidance on coping strategies, resilience building, and self-confidence development.
- Collaborate with clients and families to identify triggers, early warning signs, and proactive strategies for crisis management.
- Design and implement personalized coaching plans that respect each client's unique strengths, abilities, and challenges.
- Draft individualized crisis prevention and intervention plans to minimize or deter psychiatric hospitalizations.
Freelance Inclusion Support Systems Advisor
LIFECare Social Services Consulting
09.2013 - Current
- Guided navigation through complex networks of social services, healthcare, and community resources to ensure individuals access necessary support.
- Facilitated communication between clients, families, and providers to ensure coordinated care and successful community integration.
- Advocated on behalf of securing rights and ensuring receipt of fair treatment and opportunities.
- Maintained detailed client records in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
- Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to foster n client engagement and self-determination throughout the transition process.
- Consulted on 250+ comprehensive assessments to identify needs and link clients to essential services (housing, healthcare, financial management).
Planning List Administrator
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Office of Developmental Disabilities
07.2009 - 09.2013
- Worked diligently to ensure compliance with regulatory standards for residential and day services for individuals with MH/SU/IDD diagnoses, consistently advocating for the best interests of individuals with special needs.
- Collaborated with individuals transitioning from institutional settings to develop personalized plans for independent living in integrated community settings.
- Provided crisis intervention services during emergencies, de-escalating situations and connecting individuals with necessary resources.
- Managed high-volume caseloads, ensuring timely completion of tasks and effective communication with clients.
- Authored 100+ Person-Centered Plans tailored to the unique needs of each client.
University Professor
American InterContinental University
04.2005 - 12.2009
- Boosted class participation rates 97% by fostering a positive and
collaborative learning environment. - Increased student retention by providing individualized support and tailored feedback on assignments.
- Contributed to curriculum development efforts, ensuring content was
up-to-date and relevant to industry trends. - Incorporated instructional technologies in course delivery for both in-class and online instruction.
- Taught Criminal Justice and Psychology courses, providing instruction to up to 200 undergraduate students.
Counselor
Oasis Counseling Services
09.2003 - 07.2009
- Maintained confidentiality of records relating to clients' treatment.
- Guided clients in developing skills and strategies for dealing with problems.
- Implemented and developed core counseling programs to meet each individual's specific and varying needs.
- Implemented evidence-based therapeutic interventions to promote positive behavior change.
- Acted as client advocate to coordinate required services or resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.
- Arranged and facilitated therapy sessions for individuals, couples, and families.
- Collaborated with other professionals to coordinate comprehensive care for clients.
- Guided clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Support Coordinator
Creative Consulting Services
03.2005 - 11.2008
- Supported quality improvement initiatives by actively participating in team meetings, offering suggestions for process enhancements, and implementing changes as directed.
- Assisted clients in navigating complex social services systems by offering guidance on the application process, eligibility criteria, and available resources.
- Streamlined case management procedures by maintaining accurate records and utilizing efficient filing systems for easy retrieval of information.
- Assisted clients in setting realistic goals and developing action plans to achieve them while providing ongoing support and encouragement along the way.
- Connected clients to relevant community resources such as mental health services or housing assistance programs as needed.
University Professor
Axia College
12.2003 - 04.2008
- Motivated students to challenge boundaries, pose thought-provoking questions, and delve into the intersections of the criminal justice system, social sciences, and the intricacies of the human psyche.
- Encouraged class discussions by building discussions into lessons, actively soliciting input, asking open-ended questions and using techniques to track student participation.
- Shifted between informal and formal methods of teaching to create multi-layered web of learning incorporating experiments, practical activities, discussions, and projects into lessons.
- Created syllabus and instructional plans for each class session in accord with stated course objectives.
- Provided students with constructive, encouraging and corrective feedback.
Specialist Surveyor
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Office of Regulatory Services, Child Caring Licensing Unit
04.2006 - 11.2006
- Played a vital role in upholding the safety and well-being of children under state care.
- Conducted inspections and assessments of residential and day service providers to ensure compliance with regulations and standards.
- Worked diligently to identify any areas of improvement, provided guidance for rectification, and collaborated with agencies to maintain a secure and nurturing environment for the children.
- Safeguarded the rights and ensured the quality of care for every child within the system.
Support Coordinator
Columbus Community Services
04.2003 - 02.2006
- Maintained detailed documentation of client interactions and progress toward goals, providing a clear record of care provided.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory guidelines by diligently monitoring case documentation and maintaining accurate records for audit purposes.
- Fostered partnerships with local service providers to enhance resource networks available to clients in need of specialized assistance or referrals.
- Conducted thorough assessments to identify client needs and develop appropriate support interventions, resulting in improved client outcomes.
- Facilitated the creation, evaluation, and review of Individual Service Plans (ISP), assisting clients with developmental and dually diagnosed disabilities, thus ensuring their access to necessary services.
Certified Service Monitor/Coordinator
New Dimensions, Inc.
07.2001 - 03.2003
- Performed daily function of Qualified Professional, maintaining client records (including EHR), service authorizations, and service documentation.
- Developed, implemented, monitored, and revised Person-Centered Plan (PCP) or care plan in conjunction with guardians, outside agencies/service providers and other treatment team members
- Ensured compliance and performed case management function for Medicaid and state-funded IDD services.
- Provided mental, emotional and physical support to clients with special needs using positive reinforcement.
- Conducted routine inspections of the homes of individuals in Community Living Arrangements proactively addressing any issues identified.
On Call Weekend Senior Counselor
Inner Harbour Psychiatric Hospital
02.1996 - 05.2002
- Provided crisis management support, effectively deescalating high-stress situations.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions, fostering a sense of community among participants.
- Worked with clients to help them resolve behavioral, social and personal problems.
- Contributed to staff meetings by sharing insights into current trends and emerging issues in the field of mental health counseling.
- Conducted assessments and evaluations to determine appropriate counseling interventions.
County Manager
America's Counseling Service
11.2000 - 05.2001
- Developed and managed budgets for optimal resource allocation, resulting in efficient use of funds.
- Managed grant applications process, securing funding for vital community programs and initiatives.
- Implemented policies and procedures that promoted transparency, accountability, and compliance within the organization.
- Led interdepartmental collaboration efforts to address complex issues, fostering a cooperative working environment among staff members.
- Managed personnel by providing guidance, support, and performance evaluations to ensure a productive workforce.
Family Worker
Eckerd Youth Alternatives, Inc.
04.1997 - 11.2000
- Fostered positive relationships between parents and Eckerd Youth Alternatives, Inc. through regular communication and collaboration efforts.
- Delivered high-quality parent education classes on topics such as discipline strategies, nutrition guidelines, or developmental milestones based on client needs assessment results.
- Facilitated access to mental health services for struggling families by offering referrals and coordinating appointments as needed.
- Conducted regular home visits to monitor family progress, address concerns, and provide ongoing encouragement.
- Provided crisis intervention support for families experiencing difficulties, connecting them with appropriate assistance programs.
Education
Master of Science - Applied Behavior Analysis
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN 01.2024 - 06.2026
Master of Science - Counseling and Psychology, Clinical Mental Health, Psychology
Troy State University
Phoenix City, AL06.2003
Master of Public Administration - MPA - Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
Columbus State Community College
Columbus, GA08.1999
Bachelor of Arts - BA - Political Science and Government
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA12.1996
Skills
- Case Management: Client assessment, needs assessment, intervention planning, advocacy, resource coordination, crisis management
- Client Support: Problem-solving, decision-making, communication, documentation, client advocacy, service coordination, goal-setting
- Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration: Assessment and evaluation, counseling, client-centered care, risk assessment, client empowerment
- Organizational Skills: Time management, attention to detail, stress management, emotional intelligence, solution-focused strategies
- Professional Development: Case conferences, client progress tracking, confidentiality, mental health, substance abuse, healthcare navigation
- Therapeutic Approaches: Trauma-informed care, critical thinking, evidence-based practices
- General Skills: Attention to detail, collaboration, creativity, computer skills, training, communication, motivation, expertise in Maintaining Microsoft Office, Excel and Google Spreadsheets, and Working with Management Software
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Quote
There is a powerful driving force inside every human being that, once unleashed, can make any vision, dream, or desire a reality.
Tony Robbins
Certification
- Qualified Professional (QP)/Intellectual Developmental Disabilities
- Intensive In-Home Qualified Professional
- Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) - Behavior Analyst Certification Board
- Certified Peer Support Specialist - Georgia
- Mental Health First Aid Certification - National Council for Behavioral Health
- Basic Life Support Certification (BLS) - American Heart Association
- CPR/AED Certification - American Heart Association
- Georgia Driver's License
Timeline
Master of Science - Applied Behavior Analysis
Capella University
01.2024 - 06.2026
Neurodivergent Transformational Coach
Resilient & Rising
11.2018 - Current
Freelance Inclusion Support Systems Advisor
LIFECare Social Services Consulting
09.2013 - Current
Planning List Administrator
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Office of Developmental Disabilities
07.2009 - 09.2013
Specialist Surveyor
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Office of Regulatory Services, Child Caring Licensing Unit
04.2006 - 11.2006
University Professor
American InterContinental University
04.2005 - 12.2009
Support Coordinator
Creative Consulting Services
03.2005 - 11.2008
University Professor
Axia College
12.2003 - 04.2008
Counselor
Oasis Counseling Services
09.2003 - 07.2009
Support Coordinator
Columbus Community Services
04.2003 - 02.2006
Certified Service Monitor/Coordinator
New Dimensions, Inc.
07.2001 - 03.2003
County Manager
America's Counseling Service
11.2000 - 05.2001
Family Worker
Eckerd Youth Alternatives, Inc.
04.1997 - 11.2000
On Call Weekend Senior Counselor
Inner Harbour Psychiatric Hospital
02.1996 - 05.2002
Master of Science - Counseling and Psychology, Clinical Mental Health, Psychology
Troy State University
Master of Public Administration - MPA - Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
Columbus State Community College
Bachelor of Arts - BA - Political Science and Government
University of West Georgia
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