Karen L. WATTS
Merrillville
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience as a Student Supports Manager at Community In Schools, excelling in crisis management and student assessments. Proven ability to develop impactful support plans and facilitate engaging group sessions, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience among students. Committed to empowering youth through effective mentoring and resource coordination.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Supports Manager
Community In Schools
Chicago
04.2023 - Current
- Managed crisis situations for students facing emotional challenges, providing immediate support and resources.
- Facilitate weekly SEL groups with students.
- Develop student support plans, goals and needs assessments.
- Completed CACYCI assessments to identify student needs and tailor support strategies.
- Conducted quarterly meetings with administration to align student support initiatives and address challenges.
- Student consultations with staff and parents.
Program Manager & Facilitator
M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment
South Holland
08.2022 - Current
- Facilitated discussions for girls ages 8-18 on self-esteem, relationship building, bullying, and related topics to foster personal growth.
- Guided girls in processing and navigating session activities to enhance understanding and application of concepts.
- Mentored 4-6 participants throughout school year, organizing outings and conducting individual check-ins to support personal development.
- Develop program curriculum for biweekly sessions.
- Develop age-appropriate content for group sessions.
School Therapist
Infinity Counseling
Crown Point
12.2023 - 12.2025
- Participated in crisis and therapeutic interventions with students experiencing trauma, providing immediate support and guidance.
- Conducted individual sessions with students to address educational concerns and mental health needs, fostering personal growth and academic success.
- Develop treatment plans for students based upon mental health needs.
- Collaborated with school staff and social workers to coordinate resources and support for students, enhancing their overall well-being.
- Conduct weekly groups with students, addressing various topics.
Housing Case Manager
Deborah’s Place
Chicago
08.2023 - 12.2023
- Supported clients in securing stable housing through ongoing assistance.
- Facilitated clients' transition to permanent housing by identifying suitable options.
- Ensure all barriers are addressed to prevent homelessness.
- Provided support to clients addressing mental health, financial, and substance abuse challenges.
- Collaborated with property owners to enhance client support and prevent homelessness.
- Conduct monthly visits and assessments with clients.
Intact Case Manager
Omni Youth Services
Buffalo Grove
04.2020 - 08.2023
- Developed tailored service plans to meet individual client needs.
- Performed weekly visits to monitor client progress and offer ongoing support.
- Connect families to appropriate service providers.
- Research appropriate services for families and children to address immediate and long term needs.
- Develop /complete assessments for clients/families.
- Completed background checks and secured placement clearance to ensure client safety.
Behavioral Health Technician
Campagna Academy
Schererville
11.2017 - 02.2020
- Monitored and documented resident behaviors during daily activities to inform care strategies.
- Created and upheld a safe, nurturing environment that supported resident well-being.
- Coordinated group activities that fostered resident engagement and social connections.
- Escorted residents on recreational outings to promote social interaction.
- Teach residents life skills.
Education
Master of Social Work -
Indiana Weslyn University
Marion, IN08-2023
Bachelor of Social Work -
Indiana University Northwest
Gary, IN05-2019
Skills
- Student assessments
- Individualized support
- Needs assessment
- Plan development
- Service development
- Preventive strategies
- Resource coordination
- Community engagement
- Group facilitation
- Decision-making
- Team leadership
- Conflict resolution
- Emotional intelligence
- Goal setting
Timeline
School Therapist
Infinity Counseling
12.2023 - 12.2025
Housing Case Manager
Deborah’s Place
08.2023 - 12.2023
Student Supports Manager
Community In Schools
04.2023 - Current
Program Manager & Facilitator
M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment
08.2022 - Current
Intact Case Manager
Omni Youth Services
04.2020 - 08.2023
Behavioral Health Technician
Campagna Academy
11.2017 - 02.2020
Master of Social Work -
Indiana Weslyn University
Bachelor of Social Work -
Indiana University Northwest