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Summary

Compassionate and patient with years of experience working with couples, families and youth during crisis or who have lived with trauma. Exemplary leadership skills, demonstrated by leading group counselling sessions, mentoring youth, and above all striving to lead by example. A self-motivated and dedicated worker who approaches tasks as a challenge. An active problem solver driven to explore creative solutions to even the most complex obstacles. Comfortable working with a diverse clientèle of all cultures and orientations. Motivated by a strong obligation towards the needs and best interest of clients. Proficient communication skills both written and verbal, but especially listening. Highly organized and schedule orientated. Extensive training in programming for clients with special developmental and physical disabilities as well as those with mental health needs.

Skills

Dual Perspective Taking

Able to maintain the mediator's perspective of appreciating the merits from both parties perspective without evaluating or judging either

Problem-solving

Eager, tenacious and dedicated when faced with a complex problem to solve

Rapport Building

Years of experience in a therapeutic setting for trauma and crisis management have developed an ability to build trust with clients while in stressful situations

Time Management

Able to keep the process on track in conditions where time is limited

Work experience

Mediator, Information and Referral Coordinator, MIP Facilitator/Presenter

2019Pres
AXIS Family Mediation
  • Mediated Family Law Issues with clients in preparation of Separation Agreement or Consent Court Orders
  • Worked in the court connected service with Judges and Lawyers to assist clients resolve their matter fully and efficiently
  • Provided clients with information on issues related to separation, divorce and child protection matters
  • Evaluate clients needs and assist with referrals to available community resources
  • Educate clients about the mediation process and alternative dispute resolution options
  • Provide information to clients related to the family justice system and the effect of separation on children and adults
  • Identified cases as high risk in relation to family dynamics and potential domestic abuse
  • Maintained up-to-date list of local community programs and services
  • Worked closely with mediators, advice lawyers, family court staff and other relevant service providers
  • Liaison with outside agencies and community service providers to meet the clients needs
  • Assist with the completion of monthly, quarterly and annual reports

Child Protection Worker

20162018
Children's Aid Society of Haldimand and Norfolk

Family Services Department

  • Worked with families to safety plan when in crisis or to address prevailing risks
  • Participated in regular visits in client's homes, including high risk homes
  • Completed investigations into reported child abuse or neglect
  • Responded to crisis situations and assisted families in deescalation
  • Worked closely with police and probation officers during investigations
  • Co-ordinated with mental health and addiction services to provide support to clients
  • Organized and lead case conferences with schools, counselors and other supports
  • Prepared court documents including detailed affidavits; attended and participated in court for Society matters
  • Wrote case notes, safety assessments, service plans and 6-month reviews
  • Worked closely with a supervisor to ensure best possible service for my clients

Youth Worker

20082016
Youth Connections

Group home treatment centre for youth who have sexually offended, or have been assessed at high risk.

  • Worked closely with a team of staff, therapists and social workers in treatment of clients
  • Provided one-to-one counseling for clients for a multitude of behavioral and emotional issues 
  • Entrusted with taking a leadership role with clients in crisis, including physical restraints as a last resort
  • Tasked with setting treatment goals for clients, including conceptualizing and designing programs in areas of life skills, emotional and social development
  • Represented clients and the organization in court
  • Accountable for daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly written reports on clients progress, as well as weekly staff meetings to discuss program options
  • Part of special mentor-ship team teaching life skills to youth transitioning into independence 
  • Acted as a liaison for clients with outside professionals, such as lawyers, doctors and therapists
  • Trusted to transport clients in company and personal vehicles
  • Health and safety representative for St. Catharines branch

Volunteer Coordinator

20042006
Children's Discovery Centre of Niagara

Interactive children's museum 

  • Recruited and managed volunteers for museum operation and special events
  • Supervised part time staff
  • Conceptualized, planned and supervised special events for the community
  • Responsible for cold-call donation requests
  • Worked within a specific budget
  • Occasionally represented the organization for media appearances and community events
  • Began as a long-time volunteer for the museum before being hired

Education

Certificate in Family Mediation

2021
York University

Post-graduate certificate program focusing on family mediation, family dynamics and family law

Certificate in Dispute Resolution

2019
York University

Post-graduate certificate program focusing on mediation, negotiation and arbitration

B.A. in Psychology

2015
Brock University