NIKEISHA PETAWAY
Meriden,CT
Summary
Experienced and dedicated professional advocating for individuals' and families' social and economic well-being. Passionate about providing exceptional client support and resource advocacy. Skilled in reflective listening, building strong relationships, and collaborating on effective problem-solving strategies. Proficient in documentation, conducting needs assessments, and coordinating resources to maximize client outcomes.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Intensive Family Preservation Case Manager
Urban Community Alliance
01.2024 - Current
- Promotes family reunification through diligent case management, court advocacy, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
- Completes mandatory trainings on topics such as trauma-informed care, mandated reporting responsibilities, and evidence-based intervention models to maintain professional competency.
- Establishes strong rapport with clients through empathy, active listening, and genuine concern for their wellbeing.
- Develops crisis intervention plans for at-risk families experiencing acute stressors or safety concerns.
- Demonstrates flexibility in service provision by accommodating client schedules and adjusting plans in response to emerging needs or unexpected crises.
Business Founder/Product Owner
Organic Dose Wellness
10.2021 - Current
- Established a successful wellness brand by identifying market needs and developing innovative solutions.
- Served as primary point-of-contact with suppliers and contractors to achieve inventory expectations.
- Developed strong partnerships with other businesses to allow for collaboration and more significant opportunities for growth.
- Cultivated loyal customer base through personalized marketing campaigns and loyalty programs.
Correctional Lieutenant
York Correctional Institution
11.2019 - 10.2021
- Utilized strong conflict resolution skills to defuse tense situations among inmates or staff members, maintaining order within the facility.
- Responded to emergency situations and provided first aid following facility guidelines.
- Supervised 129 employees and performance of tasks and managed 500 offenders.
- Oversaw the timely completion of administrative tasks such as report writing, incident documentation, and record-keeping processes.
Correctional Counselor
York Correctional Institution
01.2019 - 11.2019
- Developed strong working relationships with probation officers, parole boards, and other agencies to ensure seamless communication regarding inmate progress and post-release plans.
- Addressed behavior and stability of inmates to root out concerning connections or mental health issues.
- Counseled inmates either individually or group settings to bring problems to light and implement potential solutions.
- Maintained accurate records of all counseling sessions, assessments, and case plan updates in adherence with state regulations and facility policies.
Programs and Treatment/Counseling Intern
New Haven Correctional Center
11.2018 - 01.2019
- Provided crisis intervention services as needed, deescalating potentially dangerous situations involving inmate conflicts or self-harm incidents.
- Established clear boundaries with clients, maintaining ethical practice standards while preserving the therapeutic relationship.
- Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans, and connected clients and families to appropriate resources.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions for inmates addressing substance abuse, anger management, and life skills development.
Correctional Officer
Connecticut, Corrections
06.2015 - 01.2019
- Searched cells of inmates to identify and confiscate contraband and other prohibited items.
- Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals, and medical appointments.
- Observed and supervised inmates throughout visits, meal time, recreation, phone calls, and showers.
- Conducted routine and emergency head counts.
- Prepared, processed and maintained forms, reports, logs, records, and activity journals.
- Tracked inmates through head counts, visitor logs, and scheduled activities.
Education
Master of Science - Counseling and Human Services
Post University
Waterbury, CT05.2025
Graduate Certificate - Counseling
Post University
Waterbury, CT05.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT05.2012
Skills
- Case Management Proficiency
- Organization and Time management
- Critical thinking
- Efficient Problem Solving
- Teamwork
- Compassion
- Individualized Treatment Plans
- Individual and Group Counseling
- Crisis Evaluation and Intervention
- Reflective listening
- De-Escalation Techniques
- Psychosocial Support
Additional Activities
- Department of Corrections Diversity Council, Chairman
- National Society of Leadership Success
Timeline
Intensive Family Preservation Case Manager
Urban Community Alliance
01.2024 - Current
Business Founder/Product Owner
Organic Dose Wellness
10.2021 - Current
Correctional Lieutenant
York Correctional Institution
11.2019 - 10.2021
Correctional Counselor
York Correctional Institution
01.2019 - 11.2019
Programs and Treatment/Counseling Intern
New Haven Correctional Center
11.2018 - 01.2019
Correctional Officer
Connecticut, Corrections
06.2015 - 01.2019
Master of Science - Counseling and Human Services
Post University
Graduate Certificate - Counseling
Post University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of Connecticut
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