Nonela N. Xotyeni
East Orange,NJ
Summary
Mental Health and Recreational Therapy professional with over 13 years of experience in delivering effective behavioral health support in diverse settings, including psychiatric hospitals and community residences. Expertise in creating safe and engaging therapeutic environments through evidence-based interventions and person-centered care. Proven leadership skills in crisis de-escalation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and program development. Currently pursuing an M.S. in Healthcare Management with a 4.0 GPA to enhance clinical leadership capabilities.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Recreation Therapist
Alaris Health
, NJ
01.2023 - Current
- Promoted from Behavior Technician due to exceptional performance and patient engagement.
- Lead therapeutic recreation programs tailored to diverse behavioral health populations.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to support individualized treatment plans.
- Facilitate engaging activities: creative arts, cognitive games, sports, and community events.
- Build rapport and encourage participation to enhance quality of life.
- Awarded Employee of the Year (2023) for clinical excellence and teamwork.
- I assessed my clients' needs and interests to create personalized treatment plans.
- I developed engaging recreational programs that fostered fitness and emotional well-being.
- I facilitated individual and group sessions with sports, arts and crafts, and outdoor excursions.
- I monitored clients' progress and adjusted treatment plans as needed for optimal outcomes.
- I worked with medical professionals to provide comprehensive care for clients.
- I informed clients and families about the benefits of recreation therapy and offered tips for staying active.
- I maintained accurate records of clients' progress to ensure continuity of care.
Mental Health Assistant
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Delivered compassionate, developmentally appropriate patient care.
- Assisted with ADLs, vital signs, intake/output monitoring, and specimen collection.
- Utilized trauma‑informed de‑escalation skills to support patient stabilization.
- Conducted safety rounds, admission searches, and maintained infection‑control compliance.
Human Service Assistant
Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital
Morris Plains, NJ
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Supported individuals with acute and chronic psychiatric diagnoses.
- Clearly conveys information to clients, families, and team members.
- Understands clients' emotional needs with sensitivity.
- Assesses complex situations and develops tailored solutions.
- Manages multiple responsibilities and prioritizes tasks effectively.
- Respects diverse backgrounds and ensures inclusive support.
- Builds strong relationships with clients and colleagues.
- Assesses crises and implements de-escalation strategies.
- Works effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
- Familiar with community resources and best practices in social work.
- Maintains accurate documentation and adheres to protocols.
- Facilitated coping‑skills groups and structured therapeutic activities.
- Documented observations, progress reports, and behavioral data.
Assistant Manager
Our House Inc.
New Providence, NJ
01.2011 - 01.2016
- Oversaw daily operations, staffing, and patient‑support services.
- Maintained HIPAA and safety compliance.
- Managed crises effectively and worked closely with clinical teams.
- I believe in the power of strong verbal and written communication, which helps me connect effectively with residents, their families, and my team.
- When challenges arise, I focus on identifying the issues and implementing practical solutions, especially under pressure.
- I prioritize understanding our residents' needs and providing compassionate support tailored to their individual situations.
- Staying organized is key for me; I manage schedules efficiently and keep detailed records of the care provided.
- I approach conflicts calmly, working to resolve any disagreements between residents or staff in a constructive manner.
Residential Assistant Manager
Capital Care Inc.
Stanhope, NJ
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Supervised residential programs and supported staff development.
- Ensured safe, therapeutic living environments.
- I strive to guide and motivate my team, creating a smooth workflow and fostering a positive environment for everyone.
- I stay informed about state and federal regulations governing group homes to ensure compliance and best practices.
- I handle budget planning and expenditure carefully, ensuring resources are allocated wisely to meet our needs.
- I enjoy onboarding and training new staff, fostering their growth, and ensuring our team continues to develop.
- In emergency situations, I am dedicated to responding effectively and prioritizing the safety and well-being of our residents.
Education
Master of Science - Healthcare Management
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJB.S. - Health Service Technology (Management)
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJA.A. - General Studies
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJSkills
- Leadership and team coordination
- Therapeutic program development
- Patient engagement strategies
- Emotional intelligence
- Empathy development
- Behavioral health and patient care
- Crisis intervention and de-escalation
- Recreation therapy and program development
- Communication and rapport building
- Ethics and compliance (HIPAA, CMS)
- Documentation and care planning
Certification
- Operations Management
- Organizational Leadership
- Nurse Assistant
Awards Recognition
- Skilled Nursing Week Recognition for Clinical Excellence
- Employee of the Year – Alaris Health
- President’s List – Academic Honors
- Employee of the Year – Our House Inc.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Recreation Therapist
Alaris Health
01.2023 - Current
Mental Health Assistant
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
01.2021 - 01.2023
Human Service Assistant
Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital
01.2018 - 01.2020
Residential Assistant Manager
Capital Care Inc.
01.2013 - 01.2014
Assistant Manager
Our House Inc.
01.2011 - 01.2016
Master of Science - Healthcare Management
Thomas Edison State University
B.S. - Health Service Technology (Management)
Thomas Edison State University
A.A. - General Studies
Thomas Edison State University