Deborah Ligons
Richmond
Summary
Compassionate Mental Health Technician with extensive experience at Tuckers Pavilion, skilled in de-escalation techniques and behavior observation. Proven ability to foster supportive environments, enhance patient well-being, and effectively manage crises. Committed to promoting independent living skills and facilitating positive relationships, ensuring safety and emotional support for at-risk individuals.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Mental Health Technician
Tuckers Pavillion
Richmond VA
06.2023 - Current
- Performed scheduled patient safety checks and documented results to establish patients' well-being.
- Helped patients with meals, activities of daily living (ADLs) and facility transfers to promote security and patient well-being.
- Provided crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques for patients experiencing emotional distress or exhibiting aggressive behaviors.
- Applied de-escalation and limit-setting techniques to promote patient cooperation.
- Observed patient behaviors and mental status and notified RN of unusual or potentially dangerous occurrences.
- Developed and maintained positive relationships with clients to create safe and supportive environment.
- Identified behaviors that necessitated intervention and obtained assistance from qualified personnel to complete intervention.
In School Suspension Instructor
Albert Hill Middle School
Richmond VA.
01.2023 - 06.2023
- Fostered a safe and supportive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining open lines of communication with students.
- Utilized various teaching methodologies to engage diverse learners effectively in the In-School Suspension program curriculum.
- Served as a liaison between the In-School Suspension program and regular education classrooms, ensuring seamless transitions for returning students.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to monitor student progress and adjust instructional methods accordingly./.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to monitor student progress and adjust instructional methods accordingly.
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating genuine interest in their personal growth and wellbeing.
- Collaborated with teachers to identify areas of improvement in student performance and develop targeted action plans for academic success.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress and provided timely feedback to support continuous improvement efforts.
- Facilitated individualized instruction for students experiencing difficulties with coursework or behavioral issues.
Residential Counselor
Paradise Home for Girls
Suisun, CA
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Reduced behavioral incidents by employing de-escalation techniques and maintaining a calm environment.
- Maintained safe and supportive residential environments for at-risk individuals, contributing to their overall wellbeing.
- Promoted independent living skills through coaching residents in daily tasks such as meal preparation, hygiene, and budgeting.
- Developed strong rapport with residents through empathetic listening and compassionate communication strategies.
- Managed crisis situations effectively, ensuring the safety of all residents while adhering to established protocols.
- Developed and maintained relationships with community resources to provide additional support services.
- Addressed behavioral and emotional needs of residents through activities and interventions, increasing resident socialization, interpersonal, and social skills.
Mental Health Technician
Cumberland Hospital For Children And Adolescents
New Kent, VA
07.2012 - 09.2021
- Assisted with patient restraint and seclusion scenarios to create safe environment for patient and medical personnel.
- Maintained detailed records of patient interactions, ensuring accurate documentation for future reference.
- Developed strong rapport with patients, establishing trust and fostering positive relationships conducive to healing.
- Escorted patients from unit to meals, activities, and visitation areas to maintain standard of safety and security.
Residential Counselor
Generation X-Cel Youth and Family Services
Richmond,Va66
02.1999 - 06.2012
- Monitored and documented client progress toward meeting goals and objectives.
- Coordinated recreational activities for residents, fostering social interaction and positive group dynamics.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary team to develop comprehensive treatment plans, improving residents'' progress.
- Conducted regular check-ins with residents to monitor progress, address concerns, and provide ongoing support.
- Assisted residents in adhering to treatment plans by setting up medical appointments, arranging transportation, coordinating services, and providing emotional support.
- Provided guidance to new Residential Counselors during their onboarding process, supporting successful integration into the team environment.
- Facilitated group counseling sessions to help clients address issues of substance abuse, anger management and interpersonal relationships.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - BSW
Virginia State University
Petersburg, VA06-2026
High School Diploma -
Vallejo Adult School
Vallejo, CA11-2011
Skills
- De-escalation techniques
- Behavior observation
- Stress reduction techniques
- Behavior management
Timeline
Mental Health Technician
Tuckers Pavillion
06.2023 - Current
In School Suspension Instructor
Albert Hill Middle School
01.2023 - 06.2023
Residential Counselor
Paradise Home for Girls
01.2022 - 01.2023
Mental Health Technician
Cumberland Hospital For Children And Adolescents
07.2012 - 09.2021
Residential Counselor
Generation X-Cel Youth and Family Services
02.1999 - 06.2012
Associate of Applied Science - BSW
Virginia State University
High School Diploma -
Vallejo Adult School