Highly qualified passionate Certified Peer Support Specialist and Community Engagement Specialist with over 10 years of experience working in a Dual Diagnosis treatment Facility environment. Educated and lived experience with mental health illness, trauma, sexual abuse assault, domestic violence, homelessness, and substance abuse that is passionate about inspiring hope. Excels at managing complex and challenging caseloads with a variety of substance abuse and/or mental health issues. Adept at communicating clearly and professionally with Peers, and medical treatment team members and performing outreach and support. It is dedicated to educating and empowering anyone suffering from illness and addiction.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Community Engagement Specialist/Certified Peer Support Specialist
Exodus
04.2021 - Current
Conducted informational meetings to publicize and educate organizations, Peers, and Community Residents about Dual Diagnosis treatment facilities opportunities
Counseled clients or patients individually or in a group session to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes
Assisted clients in developing and maintaining personalized wellness plans, guiding them in setting achievable goals for improved mental health outcomes.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans based on clients'' individual strengths, needs, and preferences.
Enhanced client recovery by providing emotional and practical support in both group and one-on-one settings.
Facilitated therapeutic recreational activities designed to build social connections among peers while promoting physical wellbeing.
Coordinated educational workshops addressing topics such as stress management, nutrition, sleep hygiene, and self-care strategies.
Strengthened relationships between clients and their natural support systems by offering guidance on effective communication techniques and conflict resolution strategies.
Actively pursued ongoing professional development opportunities to remain informed of emerging trends and best practices within the field of peer support services.
Reviewed and evaluated client progress with measurable goals described in the treatment and care plan
Monitored client's comprehensive treatment plan after intake sessions focusing on the accurate and behavioral treatment of problems.
Conducted surveys analyzed data and prepared and maintained reports and records.
He has conducted presentations at local events, promoting awareness of organizational goals and objectives within the community.
have established partnerships with local businesses and organizations for increased community engagement opportunities.
Developed educational materials tailored specifically towards different demographic groups, increasing cultural understanding among residents of various backgrounds.
Built and maintained positive relationships with public by utilizing strategic plans.
analyzed data trends to identify areas for improvement within the community engagement program.
Organized volunteer recruitment drives, increasing enthusiastic participants committed to making a difference in their communities.
Peer Support Specialist (ER)
MedStar Harbor Hospital
11.2019 - Current
Closely tracked program caseload, continuously re-prioritized activities, and intervened at key points to assist clients toward goals
Provided a range of structured activities to assist clients in their recovery process and support the goals of the individual
Documented individual service plan and/or Wellness Recovery Plan (WRAP)
Assisted individuals in identifying warning signs of relapse and developing practical, specific coping strategies that support recovery
Provided education and advocacy within the community to promote awareness of Mental Health and co-occurring disorders
Worked on discharge planning and provided a range of post-discharge support and navigated assistance to help prevent readmission
Collaborated with Case Managers, Providers, and Community Agencies and organizations to facilitate access to and transition between services
Encouraged involvement in community and self-help groups and other activities that would improve the quality of life.
Enhanced client recovery by providing emotional support and practical guidance.
Developed trusting relationships with clients by maintaining confidentiality, respect, and non-judgmental attitudes.
Maintained accurate documentation of client interactions, supporting case management efforts.
Demonstrated extensive knowledge of recovery and wellness principles and shared this information with others struggling during recovery.
Provided crisis intervention services when necessary, utilizing de-escalation techniques to maintain safety for all involved parties.
Fostered relationships with partner agencies and other interested parties to build a pipeline of supportive services.
Observed strict regulations and procedures regarding each individual to maintain confidentiality of personal and health information.
Educated family members about mental health conditions and available resources, fostering understanding and support networks for clients.
Contributed to program improvement by conducting evaluations of service delivery methods and suggesting modifications based on client feedback.
Certified Peer Support Specialist /House Coordinator
Seventy Times Seven Wellness Mission
01.2020 - 12.2023
Counseled clients in group or individual sessions to assist in coping with substance abuse problems
Assisted peers diagnosed with addiction and mental health disorders to increase skills, explore talents, and build self-esteem
Used first-hand experience with Mental Health and Substance abuse to help promote self-determination, personal responsibility, and empowerment
Assisted others through dynamic relationships built on trust and utilized effective listening and interpersonal skills.
Maintained accurate records of client interactions according to organizational guidelines, protecting confidentiality while ensuring thorough documentation for continuity of care purposes.
Assisted clients in identifying community resources and services, increasing their access to valuable support networks.
Increased community awareness of mental health issues by conducting outreach presentations at local schools, businesses, and organizations.
Managed budgets and financial records to maintain fiscal responsibility within the household.
Evaluated employee performance regularly, offering constructive feedback and opportunities for professional growth.
Maintained detailed records of resident information including personal histories, dietary preferences, allergies, and medication schedules.
Trained new staff members on house procedures, policies, and best practices for providing quality care to residents.
Fostered a sense of community among residents through the organization of social events and activities.
Increased employee performance through effective supervision and training.
Home Health Care Provider
Private Home
02.2013 - 01.2017
Assisted patients with multiple chronic diagnoses including COPD and Altima
Worked with doctors and nursing staff to ensure total care plans were implemented and followed
Responsible for managing oral and medicines under the direction of the Physician and reported the patient’s condition, care progress, and problems
Discussed observation with a case manager, doctor, and supervisor
Trained clients on independent living skills.
Education
No Degree - Peer Support Specialist
State of Maryland
MABPCB
01.2021
Associate of Science - Business Communications
Morris Brown University
Atlanta, Georgia
01.1998
Associate of Arts - Communications
Clark University
Atlanta, Georgia
01.1995
Skills
Nonprofit experience
Relationship-building skills
Recordkeeping skills
Public Speaking
Partnership Building
Problem-Solving
Decision-Making
Communication Management
Community Service
Committed to community service
Habitat for Humanity
Volunteering in after-school programs
Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen
Self-Help groups (NA, AA)
Work with the Senior Centers
Franciscan Center
Timeline
Community Engagement Specialist/Certified Peer Support Specialist
Exodus
04.2021 - Current
Certified Peer Support Specialist /House Coordinator