Steven Valdez
Addictions Counselor
Las Animas,CO
Summary
Dynamic Certified Addictions Specialist with 17 years at CoreCivic, excelling in evidence-based treatment strategies and client advocacy. Proven expertise in documentation management and advanced communication, significantly reducing relapse rates through personalized care plans. Adept at collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to enhance operational efficiency and support long-term recovery for clients.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Addictions Specialist
CoreCivic
08.2007 - Current
- Assisted in implementing workflow processes to enhance operational efficiency.
- I've been the clinical supervisor for the addictions program at Bent County Correctional facility for 17 years.
- I worked with a multi disciplinary team that includes medical staff, mental health staff , case managers and parole planning. networking with community after care planning and referrals.
- I used evidenced based curriculum programs such strategies for self improvement and change , I also provided victim impact programs for the clients.
- I have overseen AA and NA meetings for clients.
- My position required me to assess client's strengths and the impact of cultural diversity in regards to individual treatment planning.
- I networked with the office of behavioral health to stay in compliance with treatment licensing and policies for the state of Colorado.
- I monthly participated with Core Civics's clinical directors and leadership to implement and inform effective treatment strategies for the corrections population.
- My position as clinical supervisor required me to conduct clinical supervision meetings for the addictions treatment team.
- Prompt documentation of all clinical interventions were required according to state and cooperative standards.
- All documentation had to be in compliance with the Office of Behavioral Health, Colorado department of corrections and Core civic policies.
- I had to be familiar with the DSM-5 criteria substance use disorder and The ASAM level of care.
- Clients were screened for risk of infectious diseases , such as TB, Hepatitis A, B, C ,sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and AIDS.
- Appropriate medical referrals were made for individuals who scored high for infectious disease exposure.
- Monthly training occurred for addiction treatment related topics and continued education requirements.
- In addition, this position required highly organized planning and data entry and data progress reports.
- This position utilized cognitive behavioral techniques, motivation interviewing, person centered interventions and deescalation techniques.
- I am Familiar with various computer documentation programs.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Region Six Drug and Alcohol (RESADA)
06.1999 - 08.2007
- Facilitated individual and group counseling sessions to promote recovery and personal growth.
- Developed personalized treatment plans based on client assessments and progress evaluations.
- Implemented evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address substance use disorders effectively.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care for clients.
- Monitored client behaviors and reported significant changes to enhance treatment strategies.
- Trained and mentored junior counselors in best practices for client engagement and support.
- Conducted workshops on relapse prevention, coping strategies, and life skills development.
- Advocated for clients' needs within healthcare systems, ensuring access to necessary resources.
- Developed relapse prevention strategies for clients transitioning out of treatment programs, empowering them to maintain long-term sobriety.
- Maintained accurate documentation of client progress, facilitating informed decision-making within the treatment team.
- Supported aftercare planning for continued recovery after treatment.
- Developed individual treatment goals based on history and diagnosis.
- Reduced substance abuse relapse rates by implementing evidence-based counseling strategies and treatment plans.
- Taught substance abuse classes to help clients understand consequences of drug and alcohol use.
- Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans, and connected clients and families to appropriate resources.
- Supported and assessed clients struggling with addiction or relationship issues and devised strategies based on client needs.
Youth Counselor
Colorado Boys Ranch
03.1996 - 03.1999
- Facilitated group activities to promote social skills and emotional development among youth.
- Developed individualized support plans tailored to each youth's unique needs and goals.
- Implemented conflict resolution strategies, fostering a safe environment for open communication.
- Conducted regular assessments to monitor progress and adjust interventions as necessary.
- Led workshops on coping strategies, enhancing resilience and self-esteem in participants.
- Evaluated program effectiveness, recommending improvements based on participant feedback and outcomes.
Education
High School Diploma -
Las Animas High
Bent County Colorado 8105406-1992
Skills
- Customer relations
- Expert problem solving
- Analytical thinking
- Documentation management
- Quality assurance
- Management collaboration
- Advanced communication
- Technical communication
- Proficient in [software]
- Root-cause analysis
- Quality assessment
- Supply management
Certification
Certified addictions specialist and its active 9-1-2025 through 8-31-2027.
Timeline
Certified Addictions Specialist
CoreCivic
08.2007 - Current
Substance Abuse Counselor
Region Six Drug and Alcohol (RESADA)
06.1999 - 08.2007
Youth Counselor
Colorado Boys Ranch
03.1996 - 03.1999
High School Diploma -
Las Animas High