Alyssa Durnien
Allentown
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in mental health advocacy and residential management at Step By Step, Inc. Proven ability to enhance client engagement through personalized recovery plans and effective communication. Skilled in crisis intervention and team leadership, fostering a collaborative environment that improves overall well-being and satisfaction.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Residential Manager
Step By Step, Inc.
04.2018 - Current
- Oversaw daily operations within the facility, ensuring that all tasks were completed accurately and on time.
- Provided exceptional leadership during emergency situations, coordinating response efforts effectively to ensure resident safety.
- Improved resident satisfaction by addressing concerns and implementing necessary changes in residential programs.
- Served as an advocate for residents, ensuring their rights were protected and their voices were heard in matters that affected them directly.
- Implemented individualized care plans for each resident, resulting in improved overall well-being and personal growth.
- Increased resident participation in activities by creating diverse programming tailored to individual interests and abilities.
- Promoted a safe living environment by conducting regular inspections and addressing potential hazards proactively.
- Conducted property move-ins, move-outs and walk-through inspections.
- Reported and documented maintenance requests and scheduled appropriate services.
- Conducted regular inspections of both interior and exterior of properties for damage.
Certified Peer Specialist/Supervisor
PA Mentor
01.2015 - 05.2021
- Contributed to the continuous improvement of organizational policies and procedures by attending ongoing training sessions and participating in internal program evaluations.
- Established trust-based relationships with clients using shared lived experience as a foundation for meaningful connections.
- Enhanced client engagement by conducting personalized recovery plans and utilizing motivational interviewing techniques.
- Advocated for client needs within mental health services systems, promoting access to appropriate care options.
- Strengthened relationships with community partners through regular outreach efforts fostering collaboration opportunities for program enhancement initiatives.
- Facilitated seamless transitions between levels of care by coordinating referrals and collaborating with external providers when necessary.
- Mentored new Certified Peer Specialists by sharing best practices for navigating complex mental health service systems effectively.
- Evaluated program effectiveness based on client feedback surveys and adjusted services accordingly to meet evolving needs more effectively over time.
- Developed engaging workshops focused on skill-building activities such as goal-setting, stress management, or conflict resolution techniques.
- Maintained thorough documentation of client progress notes, assessments, and treatment plans in compliance with regulatory guidelines.
- Increased awareness of available community resources among clients through regular presentations at local events or hosting informational booths during resource fairs.
- Helped individuals set realistic goals based on personal life situations and strengths.
- Provided crisis intervention services as needed to ensure client safety and stability during challenging situations.
- Improved mental health outcomes for clients through active listening, empathy, and effective communication skills.
- Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
- Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
Assistant Store Manager/Store Manager in Training
Dollar Tree
12.2013 - 12.2014
- Managed cash registers efficiently, ensuring accurate transactions, balancing drawers daily, and minimizing discrepancies.
- Managed opening and closing procedures and recommended changes to enhance efficiency of daily activities.
- Enhanced store appearance for increased sales by maintaining cleanliness and implementing strategic merchandise displays.
- Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
- Mentored new employees on company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure their success within the organization.
- Fostered a positive work culture by promoting teamwork and recognizing individual achievements among staff members regularly.
- Provided weekly work schedules to employees to accommodate business demands and vacation requests.
- Oversaw daily store operations, ensuring smooth workflows and timely completion of tasks for optimal customer experience.
Education
Trauma-Competent Professional - 30-session Trauma Studies Program
Lakeside Global Institute
Philadelphia04-2023
Certified Peer Specialist - 76 Hour Course
RI International
Arizona City02-2017
High School Diploma -
Hackettstown High School
Hackettstown06-1996
Skills
- Mental Health First Aid Instructor 02/26/2025-02/26/2027
- Licensed Certified Peer Specialist 02/27/2025-02/27/2027
- First Aid/ CPR/AED instructor 09/16/2024-09/16/2026
- CPS Supervising Training 08/29/2017
- Wrap Facilitator 06/07/2019 and 02/2024
- Certified Personal Medicine Coach 11/15/2023
Timeline
Residential Manager
Step By Step, Inc.
04.2018 - Current
Certified Peer Specialist/Supervisor
PA Mentor
01.2015 - 05.2021
Assistant Store Manager/Store Manager in Training
Dollar Tree
12.2013 - 12.2014
Trauma-Competent Professional - 30-session Trauma Studies Program
Lakeside Global Institute
Certified Peer Specialist - 76 Hour Course
RI International
High School Diploma -
Hackettstown High School
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