Suzanne Suzie Carlson
Tucson,AZ
Summary
I am a trusted leader and strategic thinker, bringing over a decade of experience in human services, specializing in developmental disabilities and person-centered planning. Over the years, I have developed the ability to gain trust, navigate complex cases, and foster collaboration. I excel at guiding teams through difficult challenges while maintaining a compassionate, solutions-focused approach. I am a skilled mentor and facilitator, ensuring that individuals receive the highest level of care through effective support and advocacy.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Human Services Specialist III - Division of Developmental Disabilities
State of Arizona - Department of Economic Security
02.2016 - Current
- Lead and mentor teams, providing strategic guidance and technical expertise to ensure seamless implementation of person-centered support plans (PCSPs)
- Build strong, trusting relationships with staff, members, and stakeholders to facilitate positive outcomes in complex cases
- Strategically navigate high-stakes cases, offering critical insight and support to teams managing individuals with significant behavioral, medical, and social challenges
- Coordinate multi-disciplinary efforts, attending ART/CFT meetings to align agency resources and external services
- Drive policy comprehension and adherence, ensuring compliance with DES and DDD regulations while empowering teams to engage in data-driven decision-making
- Advocate for holistic, individualized care, facilitating access to essential health services and ensuring members receive high-quality, coordinated support
Human Services Specialist II - Division of Developmental Disabilities
State of Arizona - Department of Economic Security
09.2013 - 02.2016
- Served as a key liaison between members, families, and providers, ensuring that individualized support plans reflected the needs, strengths, and goals of each person
- Cultivated trust and collaboration, guiding families and care professionals through the planning process with empathy and professionalism
- Regularly led case reviews, assessments, and care planning meetings, ensuring that all services aligned with the member's best interests
- Mentored and trained new employees, sharing expertise in policy, case management, and best practices to elevate team performance
Ophthalmic Technician
Nationwide Vision
02.2007 - 09.2013
- Managed patient intake, assessments, and surgical preparation, ensuring a high standard of care in a fast-paced medical setting
- Excelled in patient education, helping individuals make informed decisions about their vision care while ensuring a positive experience
- Provided expert technical support in surgical and examination environments, ensuring precision and efficiency
Education
Bachelor of Science - Human Services
University of Phoenix
05.2012
Skills
- Trust & Relationship Building
- Strategic Problem Solving
- Leadership & Mentorship
- Complex Case Management
- Policy & Compliance Mastery
- Crisis & Conflict Resolution
- Interdisciplinary Coordination
References
Available upon request.
Volunteer And Community Engagement
- New Beginnings for Women and Children
- Pima County Attorney's Office - Homicide Survivors
- Pima County Attorney Victim Services Division
- Emerge! Domestic Violence Support
Key Skills And Expertise
- Trust & Relationship Building - Quickly establishes rapport with diverse individuals and teams, fostering collaboration and respect.
- Strategic Problem Solving - Anticipates challenges and crafts proactive, effective solutions.
- Leadership & Mentorship - Guides teams with a balance of accountability, support, and empowerment.
- Complex Case Management - Experienced in navigating multi-faceted cases involving medical, behavioral, and systemic barriers.
- Policy & Compliance Mastery - Ensures adherence to federal and state regulations while advocating for practical, client-centered solutions.
- Crisis & Conflict Resolution - Skilled in de-escalating conflicts and guiding teams through high-stakes situations with professionalism and empathy.
- Interdisciplinary Coordination - Aligns services across healthcare, behavioral health, and community resources to deliver comprehensive care.
Timeline
Human Services Specialist III - Division of Developmental Disabilities
State of Arizona - Department of Economic Security
02.2016 - Current
Human Services Specialist II - Division of Developmental Disabilities
State of Arizona - Department of Economic Security
09.2013 - 02.2016
Ophthalmic Technician
Nationwide Vision
02.2007 - 09.2013
Bachelor of Science - Human Services
University of Phoenix
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