Yadira Cruz-Duron MSHCM LPC-S NCC
Marrero,LA
Summary
Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Possesses outstanding interpersonal and conflict management skills.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Clinical Counselor
National Youth Advocate Program
Metairie, LA, US
12.2024 - Current
- Provided mentoring and supervision to interns and clinical staff to ensure that daily tasks were completed.
- Participated in on call schedule to support staff as needed.
- Supported staff with services following Office of Refugee and Resettlement guidelines to reunify unaccompanied minors with the goal of reunification.
- Implemented an employee wellness program to enhance understanding of mental and physical health.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for clients'' diverse needs.
- Maintained confidentiality and upheld ethical standards in all interactions with clients, families, and colleagues.
Behavioral Health Clinical Case Manager EAP Clinical Counselor
Aetna Health Insurance
Austin, TX, US
04.2022 - 12.2024
- Managed a case load of 100-120 members with 13 engaged members per month.
- Developed treatment plan with members based on identified care needs to reduce hospital readmissions.
- Partnered with pharmacists, physicians, and social workers to provide members with wraparound support.
- Participated in developing a child abuse assessment page to support clinicians when working with children throughout the United States.
Diversion Counselor
Jefferson Parish District Attorney's Office Pre-trial Diversion Program
Harvey, Louisiana, US
03.2019 - 04.2022
- Encouraged positive change by helping individuals and families recognize patterns of negative thinking that may be contributing towards symptoms of maladaptive behavior.
- Took on leadership roles such as mentoring student interns, training new clinicians, and supporting program staff while Clinical Supervisor was on leave.
- Trained, supervised, and mentored interns to develop their professional skills and ensure procedures were followed.
- Monitored interns’ professional development and learning plans and provided weekly individual supervision.
- Presented trainings to staff to increase clinical skills competencies.
- Maintained detailed records of client progress while adhering to confidentiality regulations.
- Provided individual and group counseling for a diverse population of clients between the ages of 11-17.
- Worked collaboratively with clients and their families to develop treatment plans and goals that supported efforts for an alternative path to adjudication.
- Educated clients on mental health topics including self-care strategies, coping skills and lifestyle changes that can improve overall well-being.
- Organized client referrals to appropriate services and resources.
- Collaborated with other professionals such as psychiatrists and social workers to ensure comprehensive care for clients.
- Presented during group orientations as well as community meetings to raise awareness of the Diversion Program and advocated for youth impacted by juvenile justice system.
- Co-presenter for “Teen, Sex, and the Law” group.
Addictions Counselor
Behavioral Health Group
New Orleans, Louisiana, US
07.2018 - 02.2019
- Managed a caseload of 70-75 clients and assessed progress through regular evaluations and drug testing.
- Contributed to program development by analyzing client outcomes data and recommending improvements based on best practices.
- Participated in Joint Commission Audit
- Utilized evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
- Trained new clinicians to ensure smooth adaptation to program and services.
- Facilitated life skills workshops, empowering clients to manage stressors effectively and make healthier choices in daily living.
Mental Health Counseling Intern
Department of Juvenile Services
Gretna, Louisiana, US
01.2018 - 08.2018
- Conducted assessments of client mental health needs to develop treatment plans and goals for clients between the ages of 11-17.
- Developed and implemented effective counseling strategies to assist clients in managing mental health issues.
- Assisted in evaluating the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions and making necessary adjustments through a trauma-informed care approach to provide clients and families with a safe space while in the juvenile justice system.
Counseling Intern
University of Holy Cross
New Orleans, Louisiana, US
08.2017 - 08.2018
- Demonstrated strong organizational skills by managing caseload and prioritizing tasks effectively.
- Provided individual counseling for a diverse population of clients, which included university students as well as community members between the ages of 2-60 years old.
- Assisted in the development of treatment plans and monitored progress towards goals for clients.
- Encouraged client self-advocacy through goal setting activities and developing action plans.
- Established trustful connections with clients by exhibiting empathy, respect for diversity, cultural sensitivity, ethical conduct, and confidentiality.
Patient Service Associate
St. Thomas Community Health Center
New Orleans, Louisiana, US
07.2016 - 08.2018
- Promoted a welcoming atmosphere by greeting patients upon arrival, quickly addressing their needs, and answering questions clearly.
- Assisted patients with insurance verification, ensuring accurate billing and prompt payment processing.
- Maintained confidentiality by properly handling sensitive patient information in accordance with HIPAA guidelines.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by effectively collaborating with medical staff and other departments.
- Managed multiple phone lines, addressing patient inquiries and directing calls to appropriate departments as needed.
- Participated in training sessions for new hires as well as ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with industry best practices.
Graduate Assistant
University of Holy Cross
New Orleans, Louisiana, US
08.2017 - 02.2018
- Served as a liaison between faculty members and students for addressing concerns or issues related to coursework or academic policies.
- Facilitated student success by identifying areas of improvement and providing constructive feedback on assignments and exams.
- Developed and managed organized, orderly student databases and tracking systems.
- Collaborated with faculty members on research projects, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
- Expanded professional network through active participation in university-wide events, conferences, seminars, or training sessions.
- Mentored students with personalized guidance on academic progress, career goals, and professional development opportunities.
Front Desk/Medical Assistant
Algiers Urgent Care
New Orleans, Louisiana, US
07.2011 - 08.2016
- Greeted patients and checked them in for their appointments, verifying patient demographics and insurance information.
- Maintained updated knowledge of HIPAA regulations regarding patient privacy rights; always ensured compliance.
- Answered incoming calls promptly, courteously, and professionally, relayed messages accurately.
- Provided support services to physicians during examinations as required; assisted with minor procedures as needed.
- Managed daily operations at the front desk such as checking out patients and collecting payments.
- Utilized medical software to enter patient data, including medical history and insurance information.
Education
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) -
Jack Welch Management Institute
Herndon, VA12.2025
Master of Science (M.S.) - Healthcare Management
University of New Orleans
New Orleans, LA05.2021
Master of Arts (M.A.) - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of Holy Cross
New Orleans, LA08.2018
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Social Counseling
University of Holy Cross
New Orleans, LA08.2018
Certification
- Licensed Professional Counselor
- Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor
- National Certified Counselor
Accomplishments
- Chi Sigma Iota Honors
- Telehealth Certified
- Member of Juntos CRG through CVS Health
- Executive Certificate in Leadership
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Lead Clinical Counselor
National Youth Advocate Program
12.2024 - Current
Behavioral Health Clinical Case Manager EAP Clinical Counselor
Aetna Health Insurance
04.2022 - 12.2024
Diversion Counselor
Jefferson Parish District Attorney's Office Pre-trial Diversion Program
03.2019 - 04.2022
Addictions Counselor
Behavioral Health Group
07.2018 - 02.2019
Mental Health Counseling Intern
Department of Juvenile Services
01.2018 - 08.2018
Counseling Intern
University of Holy Cross
08.2017 - 08.2018
Graduate Assistant
University of Holy Cross
08.2017 - 02.2018
Patient Service Associate
St. Thomas Community Health Center
07.2016 - 08.2018
Front Desk/Medical Assistant
Algiers Urgent Care
07.2011 - 08.2016
Master of Science (M.S.) - Healthcare Management
University of New Orleans
Master of Arts (M.A.) - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of Holy Cross
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Social Counseling
University of Holy Cross
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) -
Jack Welch Management Institute