Kristen Fonseca
Sutherland
Summary
I have worked closely with both men and women experiencing a multitude of issues such as homelessness, mental health, drug and alcohol use and domestic violence. I have graduated with a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy and am eagerly looking to challenge and further my knowledge and experience within the social work and mental health industry. I am passionate about advocacy for vulnerable populations and possess an ability to actively listen, encourage and support others in an empathic manner. I have developed sound experience in a variety of capacities including empowering clients and maintaining strong relationships with relevant government and community organisations by employing an enthusiastic, mature, and proactive attitude towards all roles and tasks undertaken to date.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Domestic and Family Violence Caseworker
Southern Sydney Womens Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service
06.2024 - Current
- Conducted risk assessments to identify client needs and safety concerns effectively.
- Assessed and evaluated clients' needs, determined eligibility for services, and developed and recommended individualised plans.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams for improved client outcomes and coordinated care.
- Maintained up-to-date records on all clients, enabling accurate monitoring of progress and appropriate case planning adjustments.
- Provided emotional support and advocacy for clients navigating domestic violence legal processes.
- Collaborated with legal professionals to ensure client needs were met during court proceedings.
- Developed educational materials on domestic violence prevention and intervention strategies for community workshops.
Domestic and Family Violence Specialist
Southern Sydney Womens Domestic Violence Court Advoaccy Service
05.2023 - 06.2024
- Assisted clients in navigating the legal systems
- Conducted risk assessments to identify client needs and referrals to appropriate services.
- Maintained accurate case documentation, ensuring compliance with confidentiality protocols and reporting requirements.
- Collaborated with local agencies to enhance service delivery and resource sharing among stakeholders.
Homelessness and Domestic Violence Caseworker
St Vincent De Paul
03.2022 - 05.2023
- Support and liaise with individuals to provided crisis intervention services to clients in emergency situations including those experiencing domestic violence and homelessness.
- Conducted thorough initial intake assessments to highlight individualised needs of clients.
- Developed and implemented individualised case plans and safety plans for clients including monitoring client progress.
- Collaborated and maintained relationships with other professionals and stakeholders to plan and coordinate care for clients.
Disability Support Worker
St George & Sutherland Community College SGSCC
09.2017 - 03.2022
- Assist in planning and organising of activities for clients both individually and in groups
- Followed company standards for client's including social, physical, and emotional and behavioural support
- Followed and updated behaviour support plans for individuals
Education
Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy -
Australian College of Applied Psychology
Sydney, NSW11-2021
Bachelor of Psychological Science -
University of Wollongong
Wollongong, NSW11-2018
Skills
- Good Communication
- Ability to Work Under Pressure
- Good Time Management
- Conflict Resolution skills
- Resilient
- Adaptability
- Ability to work in a team and by self
- Client advocacy
Certification
- Current Police Check
- Current WWCC
- 2025 -Coercive control training
- 2024: DV611: Advanced Frameworks for Domestic Violence Cousnelling
- 2022- NSW Education Against Violence Training
Timeline
Domestic and Family Violence Caseworker
Southern Sydney Womens Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service
06.2024 - Current
Domestic and Family Violence Specialist
Southern Sydney Womens Domestic Violence Court Advoaccy Service
05.2023 - 06.2024
Homelessness and Domestic Violence Caseworker
St Vincent De Paul
03.2022 - 05.2023
Disability Support Worker
St George & Sutherland Community College SGSCC
09.2017 - 03.2022
Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy -
Australian College of Applied Psychology
Bachelor of Psychological Science -
University of Wollongong
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