Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Sasha Starr Koomen

Pensacola,FL

Summary

Dynamic and results-driven Waiver Support Coordinator at Together Towards Independence, skilled in case management and documentation. Proven ability to enhance client outcomes through effective goal setting and team collaboration. Recognized for developing tailored service plans that improved access to essential resources, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while advocating for clients' rights.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Waiver Support Coordinator

Together Towards Independence
05.2024 - Current
  • Provide case management services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who receive services through Florida's Home and Community Based Services Waiver
  • Identify client needs and develop individualized service plans
  • Collaborate with clients to set goals and monitor progress towards achieving them
  • Connect clients with appropriate resources and services, such as workforce development programs, behavioral health treatment, and crisis management support
  • Utilize motivational interviewing techniques to engage clients and promote positive change
  • Advocate for clients' rights and access to services
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records
  • Work with APD and providers to provide and monitor appropriate services for individuals
  • Assist clients to manage their waiver budget to obtain and use the services they need
  • Recognize and report any and all case of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
  • Ability to use technology in a variety of ways. Storing all clients records into iConnect system
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Proficiency in documentation and record keeping
  • Ability to solve problems and be a member of a team
  • Managed high-volume caseloads, ensuring timely completion of tasks and effective communication with clients.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support services for clients, improving outcomes across multiple domains.
  • Maintained detailed documentation of client interactions and progress toward goals, providing a clear record of care provided.
  • Ensured compliance with regulatory guidelines by diligently monitoring case documentation and maintaining accurate records for audit purposes.
  • Fostered partnerships with local service providers to enhance resource networks available to clients in need of specialized assistance or referrals.
  • Worked with other departmental staff to answer questions and resolve problems.
  • Coordinated meetings and events for internal and external groups.
  • Conducted thorough assessments to identify client needs and develop appropriate support interventions, resulting in improved client outcomes.
  • Developed tailored support plans for diverse clientele, identifying unique needs and goals.
  • Served as an advocate for clients within the community, working closely with external partners to facilitate access to resources and supports.
  • Improved client satisfaction by efficiently addressing and resolving support issues.
  • Enhanced team efficiency through facilitating regular meetings, sharing updates, and discussing strategies for improved service delivery.
  • Maintained and verified accuracy of records and generated miscellaneous reports.
  • Scheduled appointments and meetings for director and member team.
  • Implemented data-driven approaches to case management by tracking key performance indicators and using the information to drive improvements in client outcomes.
  • Answered phone calls and responded to inquiries from customers, vendors and other external contacts.
  • Managed and maintained electronic and paper-based filing systems to keep essential documents and information easily accessible and organized.
  • Greeted visitors with professionalism and enthusiasm to provide support and direct guests to appropriate department.
  • Resolved issues through active listening and open-ended questioning, escalating major problems to manager.
  • Oversaw appointment scheduling and itinerary coordination for both clients and personnel.
  • Supported clients during transitions between service providers or levels of care, ensuring continuity in support systems.
  • Conducted thorough assessments to identify client needs, developing appropriate interventions for optimal care.
  • Provided ongoing support to clients and families by addressing concerns, answering questions, and offering guidance throughout the waiver process.
  • Improved client outcomes by developing and implementing individualized service plans tailored to specific needs.
  • Ensured compliance with state and federal regulations by maintaining up-to-date knowledge on policy changes.
  • Monitored progress towards established goals, making necessary adjustments to maximize success and well-being of clients.
  • Facilitated connections between clients and community resources, promoting social integration and increased selfsufficiency.
  • Developed strong working relationships with service providers that led to improved coordination of care for clients.
  • Assisted clients in achieving greater independence by identifying opportunities for skill development and growth.
  • Implemented new recordkeeping system that streamlined filing procedures while maintaining strict confidentiality.
  • Maintained open lines of communication with all stakeholders involved in client care, fostering a collaborative approach to problem solving.
  • Enhanced quality of care for Medicaid Waiver clients through meticulous case management and documentation.
  • Managed caseloads efficiently by prioritizing tasks according to urgency while adhering to Medicaid guidelines.
  • Advocated for client rights, ensuring access to necessary services and supports within the community.
  • Maintained detailed records of patient progress, documentation of services and case notes.
  • Conducted in-home visits to provide supportive services.
  • Assisted patients in accessing housing, financial assistance and other community resources.
  • Assessed risk factors of patients and made referrals for further services.
  • Facilitated family meetings to discuss patient care plans.
  • Provided crisis intervention services to individuals facing medical, emotional and mental health challenges in hospital setting.
  • Worked with medical teams, patients and families to implement effective treatment plans.
  • Managed caseload to satisfy multiple patients with diverse needs.
  • Provided patient and family education on available resources and self-care strategies.
  • Updated treatment plans on monthly basis with latest intervention strategies and progress notes.
  • Developed partnerships with community organizations to expand services and referrals.
  • Facilitated support groups for patients and families dealing with disabilities.

In Home Social Worker

Department of Social Services
10.2022 - 06.2024
  • Child Protective Services/Intake/In Home Service's/Investigative.


  • Family Assessments are administered into the home for the child’s safety.


  • Administering family-centered approaches when creating family and safety plans with families.


  • Placing Safety Assessments and Temporary Safety Parental Agreements into the homes. Providing safety interventions like community resources, social supports, and crisis management.


  • Providing correct documentation in certain timeframes while following policies and procedures for social services.


  • Screening assessment calls, interviewing clients of all age groups, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds.


  • Creating and following up with case plans specifically targeted towards each individual families needs based on their strengths and needs.


  • DSS would see families weekly or biweekly depending on if they were moderate or high risk families. Assisting families and children by referring them to community resources.


  • Managed cases for children with disabilities, and assisted family members in developing individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of each child and/or family member.


  • Attended regular IEP meetings with families for their children in the academic setting.


  • Advocating for the families and/or children in the home when needed. Coordinated and followed up on all scheduled medical and dental appointments to maintain the children's health and well being.


  • Collaborated with families to design personalized service plans that addressed both medical and developmental needs.


  • Regularly reviewed and adjusted care plans. Building case loads up while having biweekly staffing's with supervisor for reviewing case load.


  • Rotated on an on-call schedule with other social workers taking CPS/APS reports when a call was made on a child or adult.


  • Initiating cases if they were screened in as immediate.


  • Filing petitions and adjudications for court hearings, writing court reports and summaries. Testifying in court. Worked side by side with Guardian ad Litems and law enforcement.


  • Reached out to collateral contacts monthly.


  • Transported families as needed.


  • DSS employees were also on a 24/7 rotating schedule to sit with any children who would come into the custody of DSS but had not been placed with a foster family yet or were waiting on a group home to have an open space.


  • Updated client documentation for accurate, compliant and current records.


  • Interviewed clients, families, or groups to assess situations, limitations and issues and implement services to address needs.


  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure appropriate care coordination and resource allocation for clients.


  • Educated families on available community resources, connecting them with essential services such as housing assistance, financial aid, or healthcare providers.


  • Supported clients and families with empathy and compassion during difficult times.


  • De-escalated stressful situations through individual and family crisis interventions.


  • Maintained accurate case documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and facilitating informed decision-making by team members.


  • Advocated for clients to assure respected rights and wishes.


  • Improved client well-being by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing tailored intervention plans.


  • Maintained regular contact with clients by calling and visiting clients' homes.


  • Conducted home visits to assess living environment and facilitate access to necessary resources.


  • Monitored clients' progress and adapted treatment plans to meet changing needs.


  • Assisted clients with navigating and accessing social services such as housing and medical care.


  • Advocated for clients'' rights, navigating complex systems to secure necessary resources and benefits.


  • Helped clients develop new coping mechanisms and techniques to drive behavior modification.


  • Conducted home visits to assess family dynamics, providing guidance on effective communication strategies and conflict resolution techniques.


  • Promoted a culture of self-care and professional development among colleagues, fostering a supportive work environment that encouraged ongoing growth and learning.


  • Developed and facilitated support groups, promoting healthy coping skills and fostering peer connections among participants.


  • Increased client engagement in treatment plans by building trusting relationships through empathetic listening and consistent support.


  • Implemented evidence-based therapeutic interventions for clients struggling with mental health challenges or behavioral concerns.


  • Helped clients with recognizing and managing mental health concerns through evidence-based interventions.


  • Provided crisis intervention services for clients experiencing acute mental health or substance abuse issues.


  • Facilitated successful client transitions from residential facilities to independent living situations with appropriate supports in place.


  • Collaborated with schools to address students'' social-emotional needs, working closely with teachers and administrators to create supportive learning environments.


  • Enhanced community outreach efforts for better service accessibility and increased program enrollment.


  • Coordinated external healthcare professionals to uphold high-quality, person-centered care.


  • Assisted clients in navigating the legal system, attending court hearings as needed and providing support throughout the process.


  • Led workshops on topics relevant to client populations served, empowering individuals with valuable knowledge and tools for self advocacy.


  • Conducted home visits to assess living conditions and provide in-situ support, improving client safety and well-being.


  • Promoted family reunification and stability, conducting assessments and providing tailored family support services.


  • Collaborated with healthcare professionals to create integrated care plans, improving overall client health outcomes.


  • Guided clients through navigation of legal and healthcare systems, improving their access to necessary services.


  • Supported clients' emotional and psychological well-being through provision of counseling and support groups.


  • Improved client access to community resources with thorough needs assessments and effective referral processes.


  • Built strong, trust-based relationships with clients, facilitating effective support and advocacy.


  • Streamlined case management processes, enabling more efficient client progress tracking and support.


  • Enhanced protective measures for children and vulnerable adults with thorough investigations and interventions.


  • Conducted comprehensive assessments for individuals and families to identify needs, leading to personalized intervention plans.


  • Achieved significant improvements in client mental health through consistent, empathetic counseling and crisis intervention.


  • Assisted clients in identifying community resources and connecting with appropriate services.


  • Documented client progress and activities in accordance with agency policies and procedures.


  • Collaborated with other professionals to plan and coordinate care for clients.


  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with community resources for successful referrals.


  • Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to coordinate care for clients.


  • Assisted clients in developing and setting realistic goals to promote positive change.


  • Administered assessments to identify clients' needs and establish treatment plans.


  • Educated clients and families on mental health, wellness and recovery topics.


  • Monitored clients' progress to adjust treatment plans accordingly.


  • Conducted home visits to assess clients' home environment and provide support.

In Home Social Worker

90Works
08.2017 - 08.2022
  • Worked with families and domestic violence victims referred by Department of Children and

Families

  • Assisted family members in the development of individualized treatment service and home safety plans, helping identify barriers, strengths, and goals
  • I taught daily living and parenting skills, how to budget
  • Assisted in the food stamps and social security application process
  • Monitored clients progress in obtaining housing, mental health/medical services, and identified crucial resources needed for their children
  • Conducted educational classes on parenting skills, substance abuse, family violence, tobacco cessation, and nutrition.
  • Served as an advocate in court hearing for served families.
  • Conducted home visits to ensure safety plans were followed;
  • Transported clients to doctor’s appointments, food banks, places of employment; assisted in resume building.
  • Worked in tandem with Families First Network.
  • Maintained accurate records and case notes.
  • Provided appropriate referrals for housing and medical assistance, Helping Hands, Early Learning Coalition.
  • Utilized FSFN to document case management notes.
  • Conducted weekly staffing meeting with supervisor on caseload

Lactation Consultant

Escambia County Health Deprtement
06.2012 - 08.2015
  • Assisted in the WIC (Woman Infant and Children) and food stamps application processes
  • Provided necessary medical referrals
  • Maintained patient files and documentation.
  • Maintained professional growth by attending conferences and workshops focused on current trends in lactation care practices.
  • Educated expectant parents about the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during prenatal visits, setting the foundation for successful future experiences with nursing infants.
  • Increased breastfeeding success rates through one-on-one consultations, addressing individual concerns and challenges.
  • Improved patient outcomes by providing comprehensive lactation support and education to new mothers.
  • Utilized evidence-based practices to develop personalized care plans for each mother-infant dyad, promoting optimal health outcomes.
  • Provided emotional support to families experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, contributing to increased resilience during the postpartum period.
  • Worked closely with neonatologists and pediatricians to address complex feeding issues in premature and medically fragile infants.
  • Assessed needs of new mothers and advised mothers about child care topics.
  • Reduced instances of formula supplementation by advocating for early initiation of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact post delivery.
  • Created online collection of breastfeeding educational resources for patients and community.
  • Received recognition for excellence in patient care, demonstrating a commitment to supporting families throughout their breastfeeding journeys.
  • Streamlined documentation processes by implementing efficient record-keeping systems for improved continuity of care among lactation consultants.
  • Served as a resource for nursing staff by providing ongoing education on lactation topics, fostering a knowledgeable workforce.
  • Mentored new lactation consultants by providing guidance on best practices and sharing valuable experiences from years of professional practice.
  • Conducted group classes on breastfeeding techniques and benefits, leading to a more informed patient population.
  • Performed daily hospital rounds for all healthcare system maternity wards and facilities.
  • Evaluated the effectiveness of implemented interventions, adjusting care plans as needed based on progress toward desired goals.
  • Managed scheduling and coordinated appointments effectively, ensuring timely access to lactation support services for patients in need.
  • Demonstrated how to express milk and store it in bottles for later feeds.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction by creating a welcoming and supportive environment for breastfeeding consultations.
  • Developed and implemented health education programs to help individuals and communities improve health and well-being.
  • Promoted available resources and connected individuals with services.
  • Created pamphlets, videos and other health education materials to promote health awareness and preventive health practices.
  • Taught health education classes for community workers and members of public.

Server

Sidelines Sports Bar and Grille
06.2006 - 02.2009
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
  • Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
  • Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
  • Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
  • Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
  • Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly attending to their needs and providing personalized service.
  • Maintained a clean and orderly dining area for an enjoyable guest experience.
  • Provided attentive service during high-volume periods without sacrificing attention to detail or guest rapport.
  • Bussed and reset tables to keep dining room and work areas clean.
  • Addressed customer complaints or concerns professionally, ensuring swift resolution and maintaining positive relationships.
  • Assisted in training new hires, providing guidance on restaurant standards and best practices.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally to maintain positive reputation.
  • Maintained clean and organized dining areas to uphold restaurant hygiene standards.
  • Handled cash transactions accurately, contributing to balanced daily financial reports.
  • Set positive tone for entire dining experience as first point of contact for incoming guests.
  • Supported colleagues during peak hours, fostering a collaborative work environment that enhanced overall productivity levels.
  • Followed health and safety protocols crucial for maintaining safe and sanitary environments for customers and staff.
  • Developed strong rapport with regular customers through genuine hospitality efforts leading to repeat business.
  • Increased sales with upselling techniques and thorough knowledge of menu items, specials, and promotions.
  • Explained menu items and suggested appropriate options for food allergy concerns.
  • Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of orders, resulting in satisfied customers.
  • Used slow periods to restock supplies, ice, trays, and delivery bags.
  • Adhered to proper food handling procedures and safety guidelines for the well-being of guests and team members alike.
  • Utilized communication practices with kitchen staff to deliver customer meals in timely manner.
  • Implemented effective communication strategies between front-of-house and back-of-house staff for streamlined operations.
  • Maximized table turnover rate by managing reservations and seating arrangements.
  • Learned and followed local alcohol laws to keep restaurant compliant with regulations.
  • Contributed to inventory management by monitoring stock levels.
  • Utilized knowledge of menu to make recommendations, enhancing customer dining experience.
  • Enhanced team efficiency, collaborating effectively in high-pressure settings.
  • Built rapport with guests to enhance their dining experience and encourage return visits.
  • Adapted to diverse customer needs, providing personalized service that increased guest satisfaction.
  • Streamlined order-taking process to minimize wait times for diners.
  • Trained new staff on menu knowledge and service protocols, raising team's overall performance.
  • Ensured customer satisfaction with detailed attention to special dietary needs and preferences.
  • Improved dining experience by providing prompt, attentive service to guests.
  • Increased sales by suggesting additional items like desserts and drinks based on customers' orders.
  • Ensured accurate cash handling and processed transactions swiftly, contributing to restaurant's financial accuracy.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization in dining area, contributing to welcoming atmosphere.
  • Kept up with fast-paced environments, ensuring timely delivery of orders during peak hours.
  • Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure order accuracy and timely preparation of dishes.
  • Carried out complete opening, closing and shift change duties to keep restaurant working efficiently and teams ready to meet customer needs.
  • Answered customers' questions, recommended items, and recorded order information.
  • Collected payment for food and drinks served, balanced cash receipts and maintained accurate cash drawer.
  • Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
  • Maintained thorough menu knowledge to sufficiently answer questions regarding menu item sourcing, ingredients and cooking methods.
  • Maintained order efficiency and accuracy through clear communication with kitchen staff, earning numerous recommendations from satisfied customers.
  • Processed orders and sent to kitchen employees for preparation.
  • Helped customers with dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances obtain safe, delicious food by working closely with kitchen staff on alternatives.
  • Printed dining checks with total due, collected payment and offered receipts to complete transactions.
  • Strategically timed check-ins with customers to take orders and confirm satisfaction with meals after delivery, taking action to correct any problems.
  • Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
  • Checked guests' identification before serving alcoholic beverages.
  • Supervised dining table set-up to prepare for diversity of event types, following strict service standards.
  • Monitored patrons for alcohol intake to appropriate levels and took measures to curtail inappropriate behavior.

Education

Graduate Certificate - School of Massage

Pensacola State College
Pensacola, FL
05-2011

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
05-2006

Skills

  • Case Management
  • Social Work
  • Documentation and recordkeeping
  • Organiztion
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Team collaboration
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Travel arrangements coordination
  • Meeting planning

Certification

  • Certified Waiver Support Coordinator through APD (Agency Persons with Disabilities)
  • Licensed Massage Therapist
  • CPR Certified
  • Certified Child Protective Service Social Worker in North Carolina

Timeline

Waiver Support Coordinator

Together Towards Independence
05.2024 - Current

In Home Social Worker

Department of Social Services
10.2022 - 06.2024

In Home Social Worker

90Works
08.2017 - 08.2022

Lactation Consultant

Escambia County Health Deprtement
06.2012 - 08.2015

Server

Sidelines Sports Bar and Grille
06.2006 - 02.2009

Graduate Certificate - School of Massage

Pensacola State College

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

The University of West Florida