Detail-oriented individual with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives.
Conducted culturally competent and child-focused assessments to inform service planning referrals, advocacy, and other ProBAR activities that promote child safety and well-being.
Implemented crisis intervention strategies when needed, ensuring immediate safety measures were in place for at-risk patients.
Delivered high-quality patient care by conducting thorough assessments, developing treatment plans, and providing ongoing therapeutic support.
Advocated for patients within the healthcare system to ensure access to appropriate resources and services when needed.
Strengthened a network of mental health and social service providers to develop and implemented wraparound service plans.
Helped prepare supporting documentation for letter of support for Evidence on behalf of clients in support of legal relief for VAWA, U-Visa, T-Visa and SIJV.
Provided support accompanied and support for released clients in ORR (Office of Refugee Resettlement) custody or release on recognizance/bond.
Maintained updated records, including case management files, and reporting databases, to ensure confidentiality and compliance with monitoring and documentation standards.
Provided support to other ProBAR staff members on matters related to social work approaches such as grief counseling, psych educational counseling and interventions including trauma-informed care.
Maintained professional and ethical standards as prescribed by the Texas State Board of Social Workers Examiners.
Conducted on-board training for newly hired staff and bilingual clinicians regarding the role and responsibilities as part of the Release Supportive Services Department.
PRN Clinician/ Salaried Clinician
Compass Connections (formerly known as BCFS Health and Human Services)
12.2018 - 05.2019
Utilized advanced interviewing knowledge and skills to conduct initial intake interviews for new residents admitted into the program.
Conducted intakes, admission, and diagnostic assessments with clients, and documented results according to Compass Connections (formerly BCFS) and State minimum standards for residential emergency shelters.
Continually monitored the mental well-being of clients (ages 11- 17) and arranged for appropriate mental health services referrals for psychological evaluations as needed.
Provided individual and group sessions on a weekly basis to address behaviors or track progress on residents' psychosocial functioning.
Maintained accurate and up-to-date clinical records, progress notes, and other documentation in accordance with agency policies.
Facilitated staff development training.
Participated in case reviews with multidisciplinary teams to discuss complex cases and develop collaborative solutions for individualized care plans.
Conducted group therapy sessions to facilitate skill development, coping strategies, and emotional processing among participants.
Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based clinical practices and interventions.
Provided patients with detailed information about symptoms, causes and treatment expectations.
Implemented crisis intervention strategies when needed, ensuring immediate safety measures were in place for at-risk patients.
Delivered high-quality patient care by conducting thorough assessments, developing treatment plans, and providing ongoing therapeutic support.
Clinician
BCFS Health and Human Services
11.2017 - 09.2018
Conducted intake interviews and initial child assessments.
Prepared and maintained assigned reports in accordance with agency policies and procedures and applicable licensing and contract standards.
Assigned to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed or requested by position supervisor.
Provided counseling, crisis management, evaluations and other clinical functions as assigned by the Clinical Supervisor or Program Director.
Maintained safe keeping of records, case management files, use of encrypted files, and database systems to ensure confidentiality and compliance by the agency’s guidelines and state procedures.
Performed other related duties as required.
Maintained up-to-date knowledge on industry best practices, attending conferences and participating in continuing education opportunities.
Increased patient satisfaction scores through empathetic listening, clear communication, and timely resolution of concerns.
Established appropriate course of treatment and implemented interventions.
Enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration for better patient care through effective communication and teamwork.
Clinician
Southwest Key Program Casa Padre #963
01.2016 - 11.2017
Conducted intakes, admission, and diagnostic assessments with clients, and document results according to program agency’s state minimum standards for residential and emergency shelters.
Continually monitor the mental well-being of clients (ages 11- 17) and arrange for appropriate mental health services referrals for psychological evaluations as needed.
Provided individual and group sessions on a weekly basis to address behaviors or track progress on unaccompanied minors’ psychosocial functioning.
Performed duties as a Co-Lead Clinician by providing oversight in guidance of documentation on Significant Incident Reports (SIR) and audited files monthly.
Participated in all meetings, assignments, process improvement, and quality improvement initiatives as assigned by supervisor and assistant program director.
Clinician
International Educational Services, Inc.
07.2010 - 07.2016
Prepared goal-oriented diagnostic assessments, service plans and progress reports of all children under federal ORR/Division of Unaccompanied Children’s Services in a timely manner.
Conducted or co-lead counseling sessions with unaccompanied children and/or families on specific issues regarding conflict resolution, mandatory school enrollment, and address behavioral issues.
Referred client to service care providers within the community for further psychological and /or psychiatric evaluation.
Maintained communication with case workers and supervisors on a consistent basis.
Assessed and identified minors as possible victims of abuse, exploitation, and human Trafficking under the Trafficking Victims Protection Resolution Act (TVPRA).
Maintained therapeutic services within the agency and funding source guidelines.
Obtained and maintained certifications in First Aid/CPR, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and IES therapeutic treatment modalities.
Educated clients and foster family members about various topics such as communication techniques or strategies to cope with and avoid personal misunderstandings.
Diagnosed and treated patients suffering from chronic conditions.
Conducted group therapy sessions to facilitate skill development, coping strategies, and emotional processing among participants.
Safe Haven Field Coordinator
Global Refugee (formerly as Lutheran Immigration Refugee Services)
10.2007 - 07.2010
Implemented assessment and placement activities with a holistic child welfare and safety approaches for children in Federal custody and Removal Proceedings.
Ensured that all assessment information is made available to ORR for release or placement recommendations under the direction of the national agency.
Reviewed family reunification packets from ORR-contracted facilities to ensure completeness, promptness and make safe release recommendations to ORR.
Tracked and managed various types of complex special needs cases including referrals for suitability assessments, follow-up services, long-term foster care, residential treatment, Unaccompanied Refugee Minor program and trafficking cases.
Acted as liaison among local facilities’ staff, child, federal ORR/Division of Unaccompanied Children’s Services (DUCS) staff, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS) and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) staff, legal representatives for children in custody, and others regarding assessment of children’s placement or release.
Assisted with training and technical assistance to local providers to support smooth field placements, transfers, and releases.
Ensured specific projects and assignments are completed within established guidelines and agency standards.
Conducted monthly staff meetings to communicate program needs and scheduled activities.
Improved project efficiency by streamlining communication channels and organizing team meetings.
Optimized work schedules to accommodate project deadlines, ensuring timely completion of tasks.
Case Worker
Catholic Social Services
05.2002 - 04.2007
Assisted and trained volunteers and employed church staff in identifying, preventing, and bringing awareness of child sexual abuse/molestation.
Conducted presentations at the community level and assisted in supervising social worker interns interested in completing their associate degree in social work through completion of their practicum.
Compiled weekly and monthly statistical reports for review by the assigned supervisor.
Assessed needs of each client and recommended appropriate services and resources.
Established trusting relationships with clients, fostering open communication and rapport building.
Maintained high level of client confidentiality, following strict guidelines, and recommendations.
Facilitated client access to community resources, promoting self-sufficiency and independence.
Streamlined documentation processes, increasing efficiency in caseload management.
Achieved appropriate placement settings by introducing Sponsor Assessment and Level of Care tools for support for special services with stakeholders and advocate for youths who may be facing transfers to more restrictive setting.
Documented and resolved at risk youths from dropping out of school which led to access of basic needs under the McKinney Vento Act.
Certification
Mental Health First Aider, 2024-08-27, 2027-08-27
TX License, 112427
Affiliations
National Association of Social Workers - South Texas Region, 2003-01-01
Languages
Spanish
Awards
Employee of the Month, Southwest Key Program Casa Padre 963, 2017-08-01
Certificate of Appreciation, ABA, 2024-07-01, 5 years of dedicated service
Interests
Crafting and DIY Home Improvement Projects
I like trying new recipes and food trends
Reading non-fiction books
Enjoy attending community events, conferences
Collecting mint US and World stamps, coins, and comic books
I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
Gardening
Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination