Terri Loftin
Huntington,TX
Summary
Dedicated and results-driven professional with over 22 years of experience specializing in cases involving children, families and individuals with disabilities. Proficient in communication, crisis intervention and problem solving. Detail-oriented with a proven work ethic, consistently demonstrating exceptional investigative skills and an unwavering commitment to accuracy and confidentiality. Recognized for a thorough approach that ensures the highest standards of integrity in all settings.
Overview
1
1
Certification
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Investigator/Inspector
Texas Department of Health and Human Services – Texas
12.2021 - 10.2024
- Investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults/children with mental or intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in a variety of settings such as facilities, group homes, and private residences.
- Conducts interviews concerning the allegation of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
- Collects evidence pertinent to the investigation and uses critical thinking and sound judgement to analyze evidence related to the allegation.
- Writes reports which summarized the facts obtained during the investigation as to whether abuse, neglect, or exploitation occurred. Communicates professionally and appropriately and demonstrated appropriate respect for diversity.
INVESTIGATOR
Texas Department Family and Protective Services - Texas
06.2002 - 08.2021
- Investigators investigate claims of abuse and neglect.
- A CPS investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary.
- Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation.
- Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children.
- Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect.
- Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation.
- Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate.
- Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships.
- Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner.
- Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement.
- Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community.
- Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours.
- Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations.
- Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts.
Education
Advanced Mediator -
Mediators and Arbitrators of America
09-2024
College Degree - Criminal Justice/Sociology
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX08-1989
High School Diploma - undefined
Little Cypress-Mauriceville
Orange, Tx01-1985
Skills
- Client case management
- Risk management assessments
- Preparation of court documents
- Proficient in verbal communication
- Proficient in fostering collaborative work environments
- Skilled in assessing and analyzing information as it relates to abuse, neglect and exploitation
- Informed decision-making
- Conflict resolution skills
- Report writing
- Neglect and abuse checks
- Client home evaluations
- Cultural sensitivity
- Assessment analysis
- Conducting interviews
- Case history analysis
- Client relationship management
- Analyze reports and produce comprehensive and professional reports regarding findings
Certification
Advanced Mediator
Licensed through Mediators and Arbitrators of America
9/2024
Timeline
Investigator/Inspector
Texas Department of Health and Human Services – Texas
12.2021 - 10.2024
INVESTIGATOR
Texas Department Family and Protective Services - Texas
06.2002 - 08.2021
High School Diploma - undefined
Little Cypress-Mauriceville
College Degree - Criminal Justice/Sociology
Lamar University
Advanced Mediator -
Mediators and Arbitrators of America