Paula Claire Crosby Shelton
Denham Springs,LA
Summary
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in the systematic study and analysis of high-acuity populations within the Louisiana Department of Health. Expert in longitudinal behavioral observation, diagnostic data synthesis, and program evaluation. Proven track record of translating complex psychosocial histories into objective, data-driven reports to inform treatment protocols and state-level compliance. Transitioning from clinical practice to a focused career in behavioral research, utilization review, or forensic consulting, leveraging deep expertise in DSM-V classification and systems thinking.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
Work History
Social Services Supervisor
Louisiana Department of Health - Office of Behavioral Health - Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System
10.2022 - Current
- Lead and mentor a team of social service professionals providing comprehensive behavioral health treatment to justice-involved and high-acuity clients.
- Oversee psychosocial assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic intervention aligned with best-practice standards.
- Managed complex caseloads while maintaining high levels of client service and accurate documentation.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary treatment teams to ensure individualized, recovery-oriented care and implement individualized care plans for clients.
- Supervised daily operations of behavioral health programs, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
- Guide and evaluate staff performance, fostering professional growth and clinical competence.
- Provided leadership, guidance and support to staff, fostering a collaborative environment focused on client outcomes.
- Conducted regular case reviews with staff members, emphasizing adherence to best practices in social work interventions.
- Monitored program performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategic initiatives.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through regular assessments, facilitating continual quality improvements in services provided.
- Advanced internal communication efforts through timely reporting on department accomplishments, challenges, and opportunities for growth to senior leadership team members.
- Established departmental goals aligned with organizational objectives, monitoring progress towards achieving desired outcomes.
- Increased employee retention by developing a supportive work environment focused on open communication and collaboration among team members.
Social Worker
Louisiana Department of Health - Office of Behavioral Health - Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System
07.2016 - 10.2022
- Treated patients with mental health issues and dual-diagnoses such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar I Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder along with various substance use disorders.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of a diverse caseload to identify client needs and develop tailored intervention plans.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate services for clients with complex behavioral health issues.
- Implemented evidence-based practices, enhancing treatment effectiveness and improving client outcomes.
- Facilitated crisis interventions, providing immediate support and resources to individuals in distress.
- Conducted systematic behavioral observations and moderated focus groups to identify symptom patterns and environmental triggers in high-acuity populations.
- Educated families on available community resources, connecting them with essential services such as housing assistance, financial aid, or healthcare providers.
- Guided clients through navigation of legal and healthcare systems, improving their access to necessary services.
- Supported program initiatives aimed at enhancing documentation standards, treatment consistency, and compliance with state regulations.
- Supervised interns and support staff, fostering professional development through mentorship and training sessions.
- Promoted a culture of self-care and professional development among colleagues, fostering a supportive work environment that encouraged ongoing growth and learning.
- Promoted a safe therapeutic environment by maintaining strict confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations and professional ethics.
Social Worker Intern
Louisiana Department of Health - Office of Behavioral Health - Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System
08.2015 - 05.2016
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care for clients.
- Conducted psychosocial histories and developed individualized treatment plans for clients under clinical supervision.
- Maintained detailed documentation, ensuring accurate records of client interactions and treatment plans.
- Facilitated individual and group counseling sessions, promoting emotional well-being and resilience among participants.
- Engaged in case management, coordinating resources and services for holistic client support.
- Participated in supervision sessions, enhancing clinical skills through feedback and guidance from licensed professionals.
Social Worker Intern
Louisiana Youth Opportunities Unlimited [LSYOU]
08.2014 - 05.2015
- Provided case management, academic monitoring, and mentoring for students across multiple Baton Rouge schools.
- Evaluated student progress using data-driven approaches to inform ongoing intervention strategies that led to improved outcomes.
- Maintained client reports to track client progress, record interventions and provide relevant data for analysis for program evaluation and grant compliance..
- Supported career readiness and personal development through counseling and structured activities.
- Assisted in crisis intervention efforts, ensuring immediate support for students in distress.
Education
Master of Social Work - Social Work
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA05-2016
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA05-2014
Skills
- Behavioral Observation
- DSM-V Differential Diagnosis
- Psychosocial Data Collection
- Regulatory Compliance (State/HIPAA)
- Forensic Population Analysis
- Program Evaluation & Effectiveness
- Quality Improvement & Risk Mitigation
- Regulatory Compliance (State/HIPAA)
- Systems Thinking & Strategic Planning
Languages
English
Certification
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
ID #: 13784
Authority: Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners
ID #: 13784
Authority: Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners
Timeline
Social Services Supervisor
Louisiana Department of Health - Office of Behavioral Health - Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System
10.2022 - Current
Social Worker
Louisiana Department of Health - Office of Behavioral Health - Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System
07.2016 - 10.2022
Social Worker Intern
Louisiana Department of Health - Office of Behavioral Health - Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System
08.2015 - 05.2016
Social Worker Intern
Louisiana Youth Opportunities Unlimited [LSYOU]
08.2014 - 05.2015
Master of Social Work - Social Work
Louisiana State University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Louisiana State University