Zanthea Benson
Middletown,DE
Summary
Dedicated Behavioral Health Case Manager with extensive experience coordinating care for individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI), substance use disorders, and co-occurring conditions. Strong background in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and person-centered service planning. Proven ability to manage complex caseloads, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and connect clients to community-based resources to support stabilization, recovery, and long-term wellness.
Experienced with substance abuse counseling, providing empathetic support to individuals on their recovery journey. Utilizes therapeutic communication and evidence-based interventions to foster client trust and progress. Knowledge of relapse prevention strategies and comprehensive treatment planning to promote long-term recovery.
Substance abuse professional with strong foundation in providing compassionate support and effective treatment for individuals struggling with addiction. Skilled in developing personalized care plans and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to deliver holistic care. Known for adaptability and commitment to achieving positive outcomes through client-focused interventions and evidence-based practices.
Knowledgeable Substance Abuse Technician with solid background in substance abuse counseling and support. Demonstrated ability to develop and implement individualized treatment plans that align with best practices in addiction recovery. Proven track record of utilizing crisis intervention techniques and motivational interviewing to assist clients in achieving sustained sobriety.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Substance Abuse Specialist
Resources for Human Development
Delaware
05.2021 - Current
- Manage and coordinate care for clients with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Conduct biopsychosocial assessments and contribute to individualized treatment and service plans.
- Provide ongoing case management, including referrals to housing, medical, psychiatric, and social services.
- Deliver crisis intervention and support during periods of relapse, instability, or acute mental health needs.
- Maintain timely, accurate clinical documentation in compliance with agency and regulatory standards.
- Collaborate with clinicians, psychiatrists, and community providers to ensure continuity of care.
- Increased patient engagement by developing rapport and trust through empathetic communication.
- Developed relapse prevention plans with clients, identifying triggers and establishing coping mechanisms for long-term success.
- Created a safe therapeutic environment where clients felt comfortable discussing their emotions, fears, and concerns related to substance abuse.
- Developed individual treatment goals based on history and diagnosis.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions, enhancing communication and support among participants.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate substance use disorders and recommend appropriate interventions.
- Developed individualized treatment plans to address client needs and promote recovery.
- Provided crisis intervention strategies, effectively managing high-stress situations with clients.
- Promoted harm reduction principles within the context of substance abuse treatment programs.
- Reduced substance abuse relapses by implementing personalized treatment plans and monitoring progress.
Intern – Family & Crisis Services
Governor Terry Children Center
Wilmington, DE
09.2023 - 05.2024
- Provided crisis response and short-term case management services to children, families, and individuals in emergency situations.
- Assisted with safety planning, resource linkage, and advocacy services.
- Documented client interactions and coordinated follow-up services with internal and external partners.
- Supported multidisciplinary teams in high-acuity environments.
- Assisted in developing engaging educational programs for children, promoting learning and social interaction.
- Supported staff in daily operations, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
- Collaborated with team members to organize community events, enhancing outreach and involvement.
- Facilitated communication between parents and staff, addressing concerns and fostering positive relationships.
Day Program Director
Connections Community Support Program
Wilmington, DE
08.2019 - 05.2021
- Oversaw intake, referral coordination, and service planning for adults with serious mental illness.
- Managed daily operations while supporting members’ access to behavioral health, vocational, and social services.
- Facilitated recovery focused on rehabilitation with clients, staff, and external treatment providers.
- Ensured compliance with program standards and reported outcomes to leadership.
- Developed and implemented program schedules to enhance participant engagement and satisfaction.
- Established partnerships with community organizations to expand program resources and support services.
- Facilitated regular team meetings to foster collaboration, communication, and continuous improvement among staff.
- Improved participant satisfaction through effective communication and timely resolution of concerns.
Forensic Attendant
State of Delaware
Wilmington, DE
01.1991 - 01.2013
- Provided long-term clinical treatment and behavioral support for criminal justice-involved individuals with mental health needs.
- Maintained caseloads of 20 plus clients, coordinated therapeutic services and discharge planning.
- Prepared service plans, progress notes, and transition documentation to support continuity of care.
- Collaborated with clinical staff and multidisciplinary team within secure settings.
Education
Master of Science - Family Science
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE01-2024
Master of Science - Human Service
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE01-2022
Bachelor of Science - Behavior Science
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE01-2018
Skills
- Behavioral Health Case Management
- Care Coordination & Continuity of Care
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation
- Treatment Planning & Service Coordination
- Motivational Interviewing & CBT
- Substance Use & Dual Diagnosis Treatment
- Trauma-Informed & Person-Centered Care
- Psychosocial Assessments
- Clinical Documentation & Compliance
- Community Resource Navigation
- Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration
- Culturally Responsive Care
- Computer Literacy- EHR
Timeline
Intern – Family & Crisis Services
Governor Terry Children Center
09.2023 - 05.2024
Substance Abuse Specialist
Resources for Human Development
05.2021 - Current
Day Program Director
Connections Community Support Program
08.2019 - 05.2021
Forensic Attendant
State of Delaware
01.1991 - 01.2013
Master of Science - Family Science
Wilmington University
Master of Science - Human Service
Wilmington University
Bachelor of Science - Behavior Science
Wilmington University