Experienced with applying counseling techniques and supporting client needs. Utilizes strong communication skills to foster trust and understanding in therapeutic settings. Knowledge of maintaining ethical standards and confidentiality, ensuring safe and supportive environment for all clients.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Utilization Review Coordinator
Quail Run Behavioral Health
08.2021 - Current
Collaborated with physicians, nurses, case managers, and other clinical staff regarding patient care needs and utilization issues.
Assessed patient medical records to determine appropriateness of care and level of service provided.
Facilitated communication between health plan representatives and facility providers concerning authorization decisions.
Interacted regularly with insurance companies regarding authorization status updates.
Intern
Transitions Counseling And Consulting
05.2025 - 08.2025
Developed individualized counseling plans to address client needs and goals.
Facilitated group therapy sessions promoting peer support and open communication.
Successfully built trust with clients through active listening, empathy, and validation during individual counseling sessions.
Developed rapport with diverse populations, adapting communication styles to meet individual needs and preferences.
Utilization Reviewer
St. Luke's Behavioral Health
10.2020 - 07.2021
Monitored patient charts for appropriate level of care & estimated length of stay, daily coordination of care with insurance providers, leadership, and medical professionals
Coordinated effectively with other departments during review process to achieve desired outcomes.
Crisis Specialist
St. Luke's Behavioral Health
03.2020 - 10.2020
Developed strong relationships with clients to ensure their satisfaction throughout the intake process.
Conducted pre-certification reviews for inpatient admissions according to established protocols.
Case Manager
Southwest Network
03.2016 - 03.2020
Case manager for SMI-designated adults, with an emphasis on persons involved in mental health court, designated Special Assistance case manager, Pillar Award recipient, member of the Cultural Competency Committee, assisted with on-site training and team building
Participated in team meetings to discuss case management strategies for individual cases.
Educated clients on available community resources and how to access them effectively.
Maintained accurate records of client progress and documentation of all contacts with clients.
Created individualized service plans in collaboration with clients, families, and other professionals.
Used adaptive communication style and practiced empathy to build trust and rapport with clients.
Host Home Program Supervisor
Arizona Mentor
08.2014 - 02.2016
Monitored adult and child foster care homes, supervised a team of case managers, investigated internal incidents & licensing inquiries, led monthly training sessions for newly licensed providers, conducted quarterly education for providers & agency staff
Ensured compliance with legal requirements related to the program through ongoing research and analysis.
Assisted with recruiting efforts by interviewing prospective candidates and making hiring recommendations.
Children's Unit Supervisor
State of Arizona/Division of Developmental Disabilities
06.2013 - 08.2014
Created reports detailing program outcomes, client demographics, service utilization.
Conducted regular team meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and potential solutions.
Monitored and evaluated performance of caseworkers to ensure compliance with organizational standards and policies.
Promoted a culture of collaboration among staff members through recognition programs and positive reinforcement initiatives.
Provided guidance and training to caseworkers regarding best practices in family case management.
Clinician
TASC
03.2009 - 02.2014
Substance abuse counselor for Federal pre-trial/probation clients and Diversion program clients
Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to assist clients in making positive changes in their lives.
Ensured proper documentation of all clinical interventions according to agency standards.
Assessed client's needs through various assessments, including the ASAM, CASII and Mental Status Exam.
Created comprehensive treatment plans to focus on accurate diagnosis and behavioral treatment of problems.
Support Coordinator
State of Arizona/Division of Developmental Disabilities
06.2010 - 06.2013
Case manager for senior citizens with developmental disabilities, including dually diagnosed members requiring behavioral treatment plans, assisted with the implementation of new service plans/provided on-site training related to plan
Maintained accurate records of client progress and documentation of all contacts with clients.
Created individualized service plans in collaboration with clients, families, and other professionals.
Coordinated meetings between clients, family members and other health care providers involved in the treatment process.
Provided advocacy services on behalf of clients when necessary.
Support Coordinator
State of Arizona/Division of Developmental Disabilities
12.2008 - 02.2009
Case manager for adults with developmental disabilities
Assessed the needs of adult clients and developed individualized treatment plans accordingly.
Utilized effective communication techniques when interacting with adult clients in order to build trust and rapport.
Monitored progress of adult clients on an ongoing basis and adjusted treatment plans as needed.
Actively advocated for clients' rights within systems such as healthcare providers, legal entities.
Relief Counselor
Looking Glass Evaluation & Treatment Center
08.2007 - 09.2008
Provided crisis intervention services at a residential treatment facility for foster girls with a qualifying diagnosis of borderline personality disorder.
Encouraged positive communication between staff members, clients, family members, and other stakeholders involved in the care plan.
Assisted in the development of social skills through recreational activities and community outings.
Offered educational resources on topics related to mental health, substance abuse, self-care.
Education
Master of Social Work - Trauma
Chamberlain University
Chicago, IL
01.2026
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
University of Oregon
Eugene, OR
01.2006
Skills
HIPAA compliance
Interdisciplinary collaboration
Clinical assessment
Behavioral interventions
Counseling techniques
Crisis intervention
Group sessions
Individualized counseling
Certification
ASIST Suicide First Aid trained
Mental Health and SMI probate court experienced
Moral Reconation Therapy certified
YEARSOFEXPERIENCE
Over 10 years of experience working with RBHA-connected services
Timeline
Intern
Transitions Counseling And Consulting
05.2025 - 08.2025
Utilization Review Coordinator
Quail Run Behavioral Health
08.2021 - Current
Utilization Reviewer
St. Luke's Behavioral Health
10.2020 - 07.2021
Crisis Specialist
St. Luke's Behavioral Health
03.2020 - 10.2020
Case Manager
Southwest Network
03.2016 - 03.2020
Host Home Program Supervisor
Arizona Mentor
08.2014 - 02.2016
Children's Unit Supervisor
State of Arizona/Division of Developmental Disabilities
06.2013 - 08.2014
Support Coordinator
State of Arizona/Division of Developmental Disabilities
06.2010 - 06.2013
Clinician
TASC
03.2009 - 02.2014
Support Coordinator
State of Arizona/Division of Developmental Disabilities