A process-oriented Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with strong interpersonal skills and proficiency in patient assessment, time management and therapy-program design and execution. Furthermore, a team player with behavior management abilities and previous experience with STP program implementation, facilitation, and documentation.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Behavioral Health Program Director
Gramercy Court
Sacramento, CA
03.2023 - Current
Implemented best practices in project management to optimize workflow efficiencies across the organization.
Optimized resource allocation, ensuring the successful completion of multiple concurrent projects.
Designed customized training programs to enhance staff knowledge and skills in key areas of responsibility.
Advanced community outreach efforts by forging strong relationships with local partners.
Managed cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional program outcomes within budget and time constraints.
Championed process improvements that resulted in streamlined operations and cost savings.
Consistently exceeded key performance indicators by adapting quickly to changes in program needs.
Utilized data-driven decision-making techniques to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
Developed high-impact programs for optimal results, focusing on strategic planning and execution.
Collaborated closely with executive leadership to develop strategic plans for long-term growth.
Led change management initiatives, fostering a positive organizational culture during periods of transition.
Mentored team members for professional development, resulting in increased productivity and job satisfaction.
Enhanced program efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative solutions.
Promoted an inclusive environment by actively engaging diverse populations in all aspects of programming.
Spearheaded fundraising efforts to secure resources necessary for program sustainability and success.
Increased stakeholder satisfaction with proactive communication and timely issue resolution.
Delivered outstanding program results by setting clear objectives and proactively addressing potential challenges.
Established strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders for collaborative problem-solving.
Maintained and updated project related documents.
Scheduled and supervised staff meetings to discuss new ideas and update participants on program details and milestones.
Provided ongoing direction and leadership for program operations.
Developed special treatment program from ground up, laying out framework, and defining roles.
Collaborated with various teams to uncover issues, identify applicable solutions, and offer guidance.
Supervised program staff, managing and evaluating performance provide high-quality services to program participants.
Coordinated budgeting, scheduling and resource allocation to facilitate smooth flow of operations.
Recruited and trained staff and volunteers to upgrade collective team skills.
Developed and implemented program goals and objectives, establishing specific and measurable outcomes aligned with organization's overall mission.
Negotiated program contracts and agreements to obtain cost-effective pricing.
Developed and implemented program evaluation systems to assess program impact.
Developed and implemented marketing strategies to promote program awareness and participation.
Communicated regularly with stakeholders, updating on progress to build support for program.
Monitored program performance to identify areas for improvement.
Developed and implemented new media programming strategy that increased viewership.
Developed and recommended policies and procedures for evaluating programs.
Created and enforced programming standards to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.
Verified accuracy of program laws and compliance with CHDP and CMS rules and regulations.
Identified risks and developed mitigation plans.
Negotiated and managed contracts with several media outlets to secure new content.
Developed new program and feature ideas for station.
Acquired and secured
Developed proposals and operational plans.
Improved program offerings based on changing trends, audience feedback and directives from stakeholders.
Monitored programming trends to keep content relevant and up-to-date.
Monitored programming schedules, conformance to guidelines and quality.
Prepared tape for broadcasting by completing final editing.
Pro-Act Certified Instructor (2023-2025) for risk management purposes
Pro-Act Certified Instructor (2023-2025)
CTRS License (11/2022-11/2024)
Activities Director, CTRS
Pleasanton Nursing And Rehab Center
07.2018 - 05.2023
Designed, developed, implemented, and delivered recreational therapy services to affect social, physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual realms of wellness
Increased community engagement by organizing special events, outings, and guest speakers for residents.
Boosted participation rates with targeted marketing efforts for upcoming activities and events.
Ensured compliance with state regulations by maintaining thorough records of resident participation in activities.
Implemented art therapy sessions aimed at promoting emotional well-being and self-expression among participants.
Facilitated support groups addressing specific concerns such as grief or chronic illness management, offering valuable resources for coping strategies.
Streamlined communication among team members through regular meetings and clear delegation of responsibilities.
Organized seasonal celebrations that fostering festive atmospheres within facility while respecting cultural diversity.
Promoted physical wellness by incorporating exercise classes into daily schedule of activities for residents.
Liaison between activities department and other facility staff, ensuring seamless integration of recreational offerings with daily care plans.
Coordinated volunteer programs that allowed community members to engage with facility residents in various capacities that provided enrichment for both parties'.
Encouraged social interaction among residents by designing opportunities for group projects, discussion groups, game nights, and other shared experiences.
Supported cognitive health through implementation of brain fitness programs designed to stimulate mental acuity in older adults.
Developed strong relationships with local organizations to secure resources and partnerships that benefit residents'' experiences.
Enhanced resident satisfaction by developing and implementing diverse activity programs tailored to individual interests and needs.
Developed meaningful relationships with residents, gaining insight into their personal histories and preferences in order to better serve their needs.
Evaluated program effectiveness routinely, making adjustments as necessary to better meet residents'' needs.
Contributed to positive living environment by fostering sense of camaraderie among residents through group activities and social gatherings.
Improved staff efficiency by providing comprehensive training on activity planning, documentation, and safety protocols.
Managed budgetary constraints effectively while still providing high-quality programming for residents by stretching minimum annual budget of $6,000 to cover planned activities through creative use of resources
Supervised quality assurance in program service delivery including clinical care and documentation
Coordinated and implemented life skills and leisure activities consistent with individualized treatment plans to assist individuals with mental health disorders to develop positive changes in behavior.
Supervised program productivity to meet established standards and ensure continuity of care in providing comprehensive services.
Adhered to agency-based and state-based codes of ethics, policies, and procedures
Demonstrated clinical expertise in crisis intervention, skill in working with individuals with mental health diagnoses, and with individuals undergoing acute episodes of psychiatric distress; skill in diagnosis and assessment
Promoted exceptional quality of life for residents by innovating, organizing, and conducting entertaining and stimulating activities.
Helped residents build and maintain interpersonal relationships, social skills, mental abilities, and confidence.
Maintained master calendar and relevant records.
Networked with community organizations and leaders for volunteer opportunities and cooperative engagements.
Worked with nursing team to identify and document changes in patient mental acuity and physical abilities.
Trained and supervised staff to consistently meet performance goals and customer service standards.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop personalized care plans that incorporated meaningful leisure activities for each resident.
Rehab Therapist
Morton Bakar Center
12.2017 - 07.2018
Monitored and recorded patient progress in response to therapy.
Assessed residents with mental illness diagnoses (bi-polar, schizophrenia, dementia, developmental disabilities) to plan, implement, evaluate, and document care plans within sub-acute settings
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care for clients with complex needs.
Mentored new therapists through supervision meetings and case consultations in order to support their professional development within field.
Facilitated therapeutic goal-oriented programs, promoting supportive environment for shared learning and growth during 1:1 sessions with residents and groups of 15-32 participants daily
Coordinated monthly special events and social activities that promote interpersonal relationships and enjoyment
Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based therapeutic techniques and interventions.
Enhanced client well-being through personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs and goals.
Maintained detailed case notes and documentation, ensuring effective tracking of progress and continuity of care across providers.
Guided clients in development of skills and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
Collected information about individuals or clients using interviews, observational techniques, and other assessment methods.
Developed strategies to help patients cope with stress and anxiety and build resilience.
Developed and implemented intensive individualized treatment plans addressing family relationship problems, destructive patterns of behavior and other psychosocial issues.
Promoted self-care practices among colleagues by organizing opportunities wellness events such as stress-reduction workshops and walking clubs at workplace.
Coordinated community engagement opportunities among residents (volunteerism, shopping, senior centers, public library, wellness centers)
Worked closely with families to educate them on mental health issues, facilitate open dialogue, and foster supportive home environment for client recovery.
Adapted interventions as needed based on ongoing assessment of client progress throughout course of treatment.
Managed annual budget of $6,000.00
CPR Certified
CPI Certified (crisis prevention and management certification)
Advocated for client needs within larger healthcare systems by participating in case conferences and collaborating with other mental health professionals.
Continuously updated professional knowledge through ongoing research, training, and participation in industry conferences and workshops.
Developed creative therapeutic approaches to address unique client challenges and promote lasting change.
Coached clients on effective coping strategies, empowering them to manage symptoms independently outside of therapy sessions.
Conducted psychoeducational presentations within community, raising awareness about mental health topics while broadening outreach efforts.
Provided crisis intervention services, stabilizing clients in distress and connecting them with necessary resources.
Built strong rapport with clients, fostering trust and open communication for effective therapy sessions.
Established clear boundaries with clients, maintaining ethical practice standards while preserving all therapeutic relationships.
Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to help clients recognize personal barriers to change and identify actionable steps towards improvement.
Aided general practitioners and specialists with handling complex cases by consulting on psychological diagnoses and treatments.
Recreation Therapy Intern
Baywood Court Retirement Community
08.2017 - 12.2017
Coordinated and facilitated group and individual recreation therapy interventions for residents with varying functioning levels and diagnoses to improve function and quality of life.
Assessed, planned, implemented, evaluated, and documented outcomes of recreation therapy programs ·
Initiated new programs such as Stress Management, Aromatherapy, and Music Therapy ·
Assessed, evaluated, and documented progress/regress of short-term and long-term residents via SOAP and progress notes.
Developed community resource manual for discharged patients to promote independent recreation engagement
Volunteered at CPRS conventions in Danville, CA and Sacramento, CA
Marketed recreation therapy programs and special events to neighboring community members
Created and implemented individual treatment plans and goals
Attended and participated in interdisciplinary team meetings for in-service educational programs and resident care plans
Marketed intervention programs to increase participation among independent and assisted living residents from 5 participants to 35 participants
Collaborated with healthcare professionals to create tailored interventions and special events for specific patient populations, such as veterans or individuals with disabilities.
Contributed to a positive therapeutic environment by building rapport with patients and families, fostering trust and open communication.
Improved patient outcomes through the facilitation of group therapy sessions, focusing on social interaction and emotional expression.
Evaluated patient progress and adjusted therapy plans accordingly, ensuring optimal results and continued growth.
Increased patient engagement through the implementation of adaptive sports programs tailored to individual abilities and preferences.
Mitigated risk factors associated with isolation by encouraging socialization among patients through structured group activities designed to foster connections within the community.
Actively pursued professional development opportunities, staying current on industry best practices and trends in therapeutic recreation.
Utilized creative arts therapies to encourage self-expression, reduce stress, and foster personal growth in patients.
Promoted cognitive stimulation in patients by incorporating problem-solving tasks into therapy sessions.
Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings, contributing valuable insights about patient needs and therapeutic recreation goals.
Navigated complex ethical situations related to confidentiality while maintaining high professional standards.
Recorded and monitored patient progress to document responses to therapy.
Maintained detailed records outlining patient treatment plans, progress updates, treatment adjustments, goal achievements and outcomes.
Lead Program Aide
The Chateau At Carmichael Park Adult Day Program
08.2009 - 10.2015
Facilitated daily programming of therapeutic recreation interventions for 5-22 participants
Mentored volunteers and new recreation aides to contribute to positive work culture
Facilitated facility tours, orientations, and open-house events for prospective participants
Coordinated and implemented civic engagement opportunities for participants and weekly local support group meetings for caregivers
Improved communication between family members and medical staff by acting as a liaison when necessary.
Upheld strict confidentiality standards regarding sensitive personal information about patients while conducting caregiving duties.
Alleviated the burden on family caregivers by providing respite care services and offering guidance on effective caregiving techniques.
Supported patients' mental well-being by engaging in meaningful conversations and offering emotional support.
Ensured patient safety by identifying potential hazards within their programming environments and implementing preventative measures accordingly.
Assisted with range-of-motion exercises, contributing to improved mobility and overall health for patients.
Adapted care strategies to accommodate the diverse cultural, religious, and personal preferences of patients.
Enhanced patient comfort by providing compassionate care and assistance with daily living activities.
Established trusting relationships with patients through consistent reliability and genuine empathy towards their unique situations.
Contributed to a positive atmosphere by creating friendly interactions between fellow aides and the nursing team members.
Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
Provided grooming and mobility assistance to support daily living needs.
Completed clerical tasks such as filing, copying, and distributing mail.
Prepared and edited documents to produce precise, accurate and professional communication.
Assisted with onboarding of new employees.
Edited and proofread documents for accuracy and completeness.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Therapeutic Recreation
CSU Sacramento
Sacramento, CA
12.2017
Skills
Administration knowledge, partnership development, and policy & procedure improvements
Adaptive and Flexible
Program development, leadership, consistency, and quality assurance
Focused on consistent, quality care
Strong track record of establishing solid relations with patients, co-workers, administration local agencies
Patient-focused therapy
Evidence-based practice modalities for curriculum development
Compliance and policy implementation and management
Program and employee scheduling
Program Evaluation and quality assurance
Effective oral, written, and interpersonal relationship skills
Staff hiring and Evaluations
Visionary leadership, strategic planning, innovation and creativity
Certification
Established Equestrian Therapy program 2019-2020
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, November 2022-current
Acquired CTRS License 11/2022-2027
CMS State Agency Grant for "It's Never 2 Late Grant," October 2020- December 2022
CPR & First Aid, 2022-2024
CMS Stage Agency Grant for "Java Program Grant," October 2022- December 2023
Established partnership with local ROP high school students to promote advancement of the healthcare profession, community engagement opportunities, and ensure a constant supply of interns to assist with programming needs November 2022- 2023 (still active today)
CMS Stage Agency Grant for " Garden Project Grant" for Gramercy Court STP and SNF section s 2023 September- December 2024
Certified Pro-Act Instructor September 2023- September 2025
Timeline
Behavioral Health Program Director
Gramercy Court
03.2023 - Current
Activities Director, CTRS
Pleasanton Nursing And Rehab Center
07.2018 - 05.2023
Rehab Therapist
Morton Bakar Center
12.2017 - 07.2018
Recreation Therapy Intern
Baywood Court Retirement Community
08.2017 - 12.2017
Lead Program Aide
The Chateau At Carmichael Park Adult Day Program
08.2009 - 10.2015
Bachelor of Science - Therapeutic Recreation
CSU Sacramento
Established Equestrian Therapy program 2019-2020
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, November 2022-current
Acquired CTRS License 11/2022-2027
CMS State Agency Grant for "It's Never 2 Late Grant," October 2020- December 2022
CPR & First Aid, 2022-2024
CMS Stage Agency Grant for "Java Program Grant," October 2022- December 2023
Established partnership with local ROP high school students to promote advancement of the healthcare profession, community engagement opportunities, and ensure a constant supply of interns to assist with programming needs November 2022- 2023 (still active today)
CMS Stage Agency Grant for " Garden Project Grant" for Gramercy Court STP and SNF section s 2023 September- December 2024
Certified Pro-Act Instructor September 2023- September 2025
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