Detail-oriented and compassionate professional with extensive experience in child welfare services seeking to leverage expertise in advocating for and protecting children's rights. Committed to utilizing exceptional leadership and communication skills to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals and families.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Child Welfare Supervisor
Department of Children and Family Services
DeRidder, LA
02.2017 - 08.2024
Supervised a team of 3 foster care workers in Beauregard parish and 1 in Allen parish, providing supportive counseling and arranging necessary services for clients
Ensured compliance with state laws and regulations governing child welfare services.
Monitored caseworker performance, including providing feedback on practice issues.
Collaborated with other agencies responsible for providing services to vulnerable populations such as foster parents, adoptive parents, guardians.
Participated in court proceedings related to termination of parental rights or other legal matters concerning children's best interests.
Responded promptly and appropriately when critical incidents occur that involve a child's safety or well-being.
Provided guidance and support to staff in the development of case plans for children in out-of-home care.
Maintained accurate records according to state and federal requirements pertaining to case management activities.
Child Welfare Specialist Trainee, 1, 2, and 3
Department of Children and Family Services
DeRidder
11.2012 - 02.2017
Provided supportive counseling and services to clients, developed case plans, and prepared reports for court proceedings
Assisted foster parents in understanding their roles and responsibilities while caring for children placed into their care.
Collaborated with other agencies such as schools, hospitals, law enforcement, mental health providers. to ensure that a comprehensive approach is taken when addressing family needs.
Facilitated family meetings to discuss safety plans, service plans, and permanency options.
Assessed risk factors for child abuse and neglect within families.
Responded promptly and appropriately to emergency situations involving children at risk of harm due to abuse or neglect.
Coordinated transportation arrangements for clients who needed assistance getting to appointments or activities outside the home.
Conducted home visits with families to assess the safety of children in their homes.
Ensured compliance with state laws governing child welfare services through periodic reviews of casework practices.
Maintained up-to-date records of client progress and outcomes in accordance with agency guidelines.
Developed case plans and goals for at-risk families, including referrals to community resources.
Investigated reports of suspected child maltreatment or neglect by interviewing involved parties and conducting home visits as necessary.
Identified potential barriers that may impede a family's ability to provide a safe environment for children living in their home.
Customer Service Rep
1st Franklin Financial Corp (Georgia)
Leesville
03.2010 - 11.2012
Managed cash drawer operations, processed applications, and handled documentation
Developed positive relationships with customers through friendly interactions.
Provided exceptional customer service to ensure customer satisfaction.
Performed administrative tasks such as filing paperwork, updating databases and generating reports.
Informed customers about billing procedures, processed payments, and provided payment option setup assistance.
Counselor in Training
DeRidder Addictive Disorders Clinic
DeRidder
08.2008 - 11.2009
Provided counseling services to clients with substance use disorders
Provided crisis intervention support when needed.
Facilitated groups focused on topics such as anger management or substance abuse prevention.
Assisted clients with goal setting and crisis intervention planning.
Monitored client's progress toward achieving goals set forth in treatment plan.
Conducted intake assessments to determine the best course of treatment for each client.
Maintained accurate records of client progress notes and updates in electronic database system.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Human Services -
Upper Iowa University
Fort Polk, LA
05.2012
Associate's Degree in Business Administration / Criminal Justice -
American Intercontinental University
Hoffman Estates, IL
09.2007
Skills
Active Listening
Problem-solving abilities
Professional Demeanor
Self Motivation
Analytical Thinking
Organizational Skills
Research and facts collecting
Problem-Solving
Client Needs Assessments
Attention to Detail
Written and verbal communication
Excellent Communication
Professionalism
Decision-Making
Written Communication
References
Tomeka Gilbert, Attorney, 337-348-2755
Telisa Pooler, Dept. of Children and Family Services, 337-375-2952
Tarshall Reed, Dept. of Children and Family Services, 318-491-2345
Alyson Dooley, Dept. of Children and Family Services, 337-401-1780
Timeline
Child Welfare Supervisor
Department of Children and Family Services
02.2017 - 08.2024
Child Welfare Specialist Trainee, 1, 2, and 3
Department of Children and Family Services
11.2012 - 02.2017
Customer Service Rep
1st Franklin Financial Corp (Georgia)
03.2010 - 11.2012
Counselor in Training
DeRidder Addictive Disorders Clinic
08.2008 - 11.2009
Bachelor of Science in Human Services -
Upper Iowa University
Associate's Degree in Business Administration / Criminal Justice -