Sarah Garrett
Goshen,KY
Summary
Master’s-level Social Worker with expertise in crisis intervention and community treatment coordination for justice-involved individuals. Proficient in conducting biopsychosocial assessments, utilizing Motivational Interviewing techniques, and presenting case recommendations, ensuring continuity of care and effective resource access during acute crises.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Social Worker – Alternative Sentencing Worker II
Louisville Metro Public Defender
Louisville, USA
11.2020 - Current
- Developed structured Alternative Sentencing Plans (ASPs) that identified effective community-based treatment alternatives to incarceration.
- Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments for individuals with mental health, substance use, and complex psychosocial needs.
- Present case recommendations and provide testimony as part of a multidisciplinary defense team in court proceedings.
- Utilize Motivational Interviewing techniques to support engagement, readiness for change, and treatment participation.
- Provided crisis intervention and stabilization support for clients and families, ensuring immediate access to necessary resources during acute crises.
- Coordinated referrals and service linkage with community treatment providers, facilitating continuity of care and support for clients post-release.
- Department of Public Advocacy
Co-Director / Instructor / Choreographer
Dance Design Dance Studio
Prospect, USA
08.2005 - 01.2025
- Developed and implemented curriculum for students across beginner to advanced levels, enhancing learning outcomes.
- Instructed and mentored children and adolescents, fostering skill development and confidence.
- Created and organized dance routines for various competitions and recitals, ensuring smooth performances.
- Communicated with families, staff, and community members to build strong relationships and support student success.
Graduate-Level Practicum – Behavioral Health
Family Health Center
Louisville, USA
08.2019 - 04.2020
- Co-facilitated behavioral health sessions, enhancing client engagement and support under clinical supervision.
- Assisted in developing treatment plans for individuals facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, contributing to tailored care.
- Implemented solution-focused and strengths-based interventions to promote client resilience and coping strategies.
- Administered and interpreted PHQ-9 and GAD-7 assessments.
- Completed clinical documentation using electronic health record systems.
- Portland Location
Behavioral Coach – Early Childhood Intervention Program
Kent School of Social Work
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Collaborated with educators and caregivers to enhance student behavioral, emotional, and academic outcomes.
- Assessed environmental and developmental factors influencing student behavior and engagement.
- Supported implementation of individualized behavioral strategies to promote positive classroom environments.
- Delivered behavioral interventions for children in Pre-K and Head Start settings.
- Facilitated First Step Next intervention project for children
Undergraduate Practicum – Youth & Family Services
SAFY of Louisville
Louisville, USA
08.2012 - 06.2013
- Assisted with foster care assessments, conducted home visits, and provided family support services to enhance family stability.
- Completed documentation and tracked cases for youth and foster families to ensure accurate and timely service delivery.
- Conducted follow-up communication with families and service providers to facilitate ongoing support and service continuity.
Residential Youth Support Intern
Bellwood Home for Children
Louisville, USA
08.2010 - 01.2011
- Delivered direct support to adolescents, fostering a safe and therapeutic residential environment.
- Documented behavioral observations and engaged in therapeutic programming to support adolescent development.
- Assisted staff with daily operations and routine tasks.
- Supported children in activities and educational programs.
- Organized supplies and maintained inventory for programs.
Education
Master of Social Work -
Spalding University
Louisville, KY01-2020
Bachelor of Social Work -
Spalding University
Louisville, KY01-2013
Associate Degree - Human Services
Ivy Tech Community College
Sellersburg, IN01-2010
Skills
- Motivational Interviewing
- Strengths-Based Care
- Trauma-Informed Practice
- Justice-Involved Population Support
- Community-Based Alternatives
- Behavioral intervention
- Case Planning
- Court System Navigation
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Risk Assessment
- Trauma-informed justice
- Trauma-informed justice
- Risk Assessment
Timeline
Social Worker – Alternative Sentencing Worker II
Louisville Metro Public Defender
11.2020 - Current
Graduate-Level Practicum – Behavioral Health
Family Health Center
08.2019 - 04.2020
Behavioral Coach – Early Childhood Intervention Program
Kent School of Social Work
01.2016 - 01.2017
Undergraduate Practicum – Youth & Family Services
SAFY of Louisville
08.2012 - 06.2013
Residential Youth Support Intern
Bellwood Home for Children
08.2010 - 01.2011
Co-Director / Instructor / Choreographer
Dance Design Dance Studio
08.2005 - 01.2025
Master of Social Work -
Spalding University
Bachelor of Social Work -
Spalding University
Associate Degree - Human Services
Ivy Tech Community College