SARA E. WILLIAMS
Alameda ,USA
Summary
Compassionate mental health counselor skilled in providing effective and empathetic support. Have successfully developed and implemented individualized care plans that significantly improved clients' quality of life. Possess strong communication, crisis management, and therapeutic relationship-building skills. Demonstrated impact by fostering positive outcomes in challenging environments through innovative treatment strategies and patient advocacy.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Medical Management Specialist
Health Care Service Corporation
Albuquerque, New Mexico
10.2018 - 09.2025
- Facilitated communication between healthcare providers and patients to enhance service quality.
- Utilized Motivational Interviewing techniques to develop personalized care plans.
- Educated patients on rights and responsibilities under managed care policies.
- Updated electronic health records with precise patient information and status changes.
- Maintained patient confidentiality while communicating with compassion.
- Assisted in training new employees for a specialized care team serving special needs populations.
Case Manager/Care Coordinator
Molina Healthcare of New Mexico
Albuquerque, USA
12.2016 - 09.2018
- Completed timely assessments of health care needs, including long-term care evaluations.
- Coordinated with home health agencies to ensure continuity of care and appropriate service delivery.
- Utilized motivational interviewing and education to facilitate improved health outcomes for members.
- Created and updated Care Plans for effective information sharing with members and primary care providers.
- Provided clear and concise documentation to meet organizational requirements.
- Participated in trainings via web meetings and online self-study on HIPAA, HEDIS, and behavioral health topics.
Youth and Family Therapist, Intake Coordinator
PMS-Valley Community Health Center
Espanola, USA
09.2013 - 12.2016
- Applied play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques.
- Conducted risk assessments for suicidal and homicidal ideation, collaborating on safety plans.
- Instructed clients in effective coping strategies to enhance emotional resilience.
- Acted as Sexual Assault Coordinator, implementing trauma-informed care practices.
- Transitioned to Intake Coordinator role to conduct behavioral health assessments for children and adults.
- Facilitated client engagement in services to improve access to care.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive treatment approaches.
- Developed safety plans in partnership with clients, prioritizing their needs.
Sitter
Sittercity.com
Oakland, USA
09.2012 - 08.2013
- Provided compassionate care for children and pets, fostering a nurturing environment.
- Cultivated strong relationships with families to enhance trust and communication.
- Maintained cleanliness by organizing spaces after each activity.
- Completed training sessions in first aid, CPR, and child development topics.
Student Intern
Andean Research Institute
Maras, Peru
10.2011 - 03.2012
- Established pilot internship program providing therapeutic activities for local children.
- Cultivated strong relationships with fellow staff and program organizers.
- Adapted community engagement strategies to accommodate diverse schedules.
- Utilized elementary Spanish skills to improve communication with participants.
Practicum Student
Southwestern Counseling Center
Santa Fe, USA
03.2011 - 08.2011
- Counseled individuals, children, and families to address diverse mental health needs.
- Utilized sand tray and play therapy techniques to facilitate emotional expression.
- Co-facilitated a meditative clay group to promote mindfulness and relaxation.
- Assisted clients in developing personalized treatment plans tailored to individual goals.
- Participated in weekly case conferences to review client progress and adjust treatment plans.
Educational Assistant
Lane Education Service District
Eugene, USA
10.2003 - 06.2007
- Delivered individualized instruction aligned with IEPs for students with special needs.
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to accommodate diverse student interests.
- Implemented positive reinforcement strategies to mitigate negative behaviors.
- Organized educational resources for enhanced instructional effectiveness.
- Planned and facilitated activities promoting physical, emotional, and social development.
- Monitored student behavior during field trips to maintain engagement with activities.
Education
Master of Arts - Counseling
Southwestern College
Santa Fe, NM06.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology, Women's Studies
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, IL12.2000
Skills
- Care coordination and patient education
- Electronic health records management
- Motivational interviewing techniques
- Behavioral health assessment
- Clinical documentation and charting
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Disability support advocacy
- Crisis intervention strategies
- Problem solving and troubleshooting
- Effective communication skills
- Relationship building and interpersonal communication
- Time management expertise
Timeline
Medical Management Specialist
Health Care Service Corporation
10.2018 - 09.2025
Case Manager/Care Coordinator
Molina Healthcare of New Mexico
12.2016 - 09.2018
Youth and Family Therapist, Intake Coordinator
PMS-Valley Community Health Center
09.2013 - 12.2016
Sitter
Sittercity.com
09.2012 - 08.2013
Student Intern
Andean Research Institute
10.2011 - 03.2012
Practicum Student
Southwestern Counseling Center
03.2011 - 08.2011
Educational Assistant
Lane Education Service District
10.2003 - 06.2007
Master of Arts - Counseling
Southwestern College
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology, Women's Studies
Northern Illinois University