Experience

Rio Rancho Public Schools

• United States
• Primary and Secondary Education
• 500 - 600 Employee

• School Social Worker/District Lead

  • Aug 2015 - Present

  Prepare and interpret social histories and social work assessmentsProvide solution-focused individual and group service timeProvide crisis-intervention servicesAdvocate for students and familiesInterpret social/emotional/behavioral needs of students for school staff membersFormulate and compose present levels/goals/measurable objectives for students’ IEP’sAttend and participate in IEP team meetingsParticipate in developing Functional Behavioral Assessments, Behavior Intervention Plans and behavioral management strategies for use within the school environmentServe as a resource for school staff on current mental health practices to include emotional, social, and behavioral issues Proficient with school specific programs: PowerSchool-Special Programs, Maxcapture, Edgenuity, Google, RemindCPI certifiedRRPS Lead Social Worker (2016 – present) Plan agendas, recruit speakers, provide professional development and lead monthly meetingsWork closely with district Executive DirectorsAssist with interviewing, hiring and training all new RRPS Social WorkersBe available for ongoing training, questions and consultation for group of 35+ district social workersParticipate in conflict resolution, meetings with multiple school sitesDevelop and present district process and procedure for Social Work Consultation and Needs AssessmentDevelop and implement standard assessment tools for Social Work Needs Assessment



New Mexico State University

• Higher Education
• 700 & Above Employee

• Adjunct Professor

  • Aug 2021 - Present

  Prepare and deliver lectures to graduate students, both in person as well as via ZoomInitiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussionsGeneralist practice course/foundation year Evaluate and grade students' assignments, role play and papersPrepare course materials such as syllabus, assignments, and class activitiesFocus on foundations of practice and early stages of work with individual client systemsFocus on professional skill development through engagement, assessment, and treatment planningIdentify client areas of strength and risk Application of select practice theories and interventions within the framework of social work values and ethics



Heartland Hospice

• Medical Social Worker

  • Jan 2006 - Jul 2021

  Conduct psychosocial assessments with patients and families in their homes or long term care facilitiesFacilitate family meetings in times of crisisIndividual therapy with patients and/or family membersParticipate in weekly interdisciplinary team meetings via clinical documentation and in person collaborationAdhere to Social Work tenet, “start where the client is, respecting without judgement the self-determination and dignity of the client” Counsel children whose parents have a terminal illnessDiscuss end of life issues with patients and families Facilitate DNR documentationAssist with end of life celebration/funeral planning



Dragonfly Counseling

• Therapist / Behavior Therapist

  • Nov 2002 - May 2005

  Meet with and assess clients and families regarding clinical needs Compose assessments, treatment plans, monthly reports, discharge summariesWork with multicultural populations comprised of children, adolescents and adultsExtensive work as a Behavior Therapist with clients on the DD waiver Visit clients at home, work and school settings to facilitate behavioral therapy1:1 therapy addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, substance abuseUtilization of the DSM-IV for assessment and diagnostic purposes



Memorial Hospital

• Child and Family Therapist

  • Mar 2002 - May 2003

  Crisis intervention within an inpatient, acute care setting Therapy with individuals and families to assess current needs and plan for discharge/continued careFacilitate children’s treatment groups 3-4 times/week – play therapy, art therapy, treatment issuesFacilitate adolescent groups on self-esteem, violence and abuse, development of coping skillsTreatment planning within a team comprised of psychiatrists, nurses, and case managers Active participant in Psychodrama treatment group: role playing issues such as abuse and neglectUtilization of various therapy models including multi-systemic, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused