Dedra Forbes
@dedraforbes
Experienced behavioral health specialist with a focus on crisis intervention.
What I'm looking for
I am a dynamic and performance-driven professional with over 22 years of experience in planning, coordinating, and executing student and client services, social services, and behavioral therapy. My extensive background includes a Doctorate in Community Care & Pastoral Counseling, along with multiple certifications in cognitive behavioral therapy and special education. I have a person-centered approach to client counseling, emphasizing empowerment and regulatory compliance.
Throughout my career, I have worked in various capacities, including as a Behavioral Health Specialist and Crisis Intervention Counselor, providing clinical triaging services and therapeutic support to individuals facing mental health crises. My commitment to fostering a supportive environment has enabled me to effectively assist clients in altering their thought and behavioral patterns, leading to healthier and happier lives.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Behavioral Health Specialist III/QP
RHA Health Services
Jul 2024 - Present (1 year 1 month)
Provided clinical triaging services via NC crisis lines to people experiencing crises of SI/HI/NSSI (self-harm), substance abuse, and/or struggling with mental and emotional disorders affecting daily lives. Effectively provided clients with in the moment support and services, providing opportunities to change thought patterns, ultimately altering behavioral patterns whereby making baby steps to a
Floating Teacher
The Academy at Biltmore Church
May 2024 - Present (1 year 3 months)
Assisted teaching and administrative staff in the day to day operations. Provided additional classroom coverage and working one on one with students, ensuring each parent feels safe leaving their child in our care, while demonstrating the Gospel woven into each part of their day.
Crisis Intervention Counselor (CIC)
Behavioral Health Response U.S.A.
Aug 2023 - Present (2 years)
Provided therapeutic clinical services via National telehealth 988 crisis lines to people experiencing crises of SI/HI/NSSI (self-harm) and/or struggling with mental and emotional disorders affecting daily lives. Effectively provided clients with in the moment support and services, providing opportunities to change thought patterns, ultimately altering behavioral patterns whereby making baby steps
Therapeutic Behavior Intervention Specialist
The Guild for Exceptional Children (GEC)
Apr 2023 - Present (2 years 4 months)
Performed functional analyses of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and Autism in Residential setting. Developed and implemented Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies in order to assist those individuals with social, emotional, educational, and independent skills.
Telemental Health Behavior Coach
Ableto
Oct 2020 - Present (4 years 10 months)
Provided therapeutic services via telehealth platform to people experiencing and/or struggling with mental and emotional disorders. Effectively provided patients with opportunities to change thought patterns, ultimately altering behavioral patterns whereby making baby steps to a happier, healthier lifestyle.
Telemental Cognitive Behavior Therapist
Thervo
Aug 2020 - Present (5 years)
Provided therapeutic services via telehealth platform to people experiencing and/or struggling with mental and emotional disorders. Effectively provided patients with opportunities to change thought patterns, ultimately altering behavioral patterns whereby making baby steps to a happier, healthier lifestyle.
Therapeutic Behavior Intervention Specialist
Birch Family Services
Aug 2019 - Present (6 years)
Performed functional analyses of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and Autism in Residential setting. Developed and implemented Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies in order to assist those individuals with social, emotional, educational, and independent skills.
Behavioral Consultant – Behavior Analysis Unit
Kings County Hospital Behavioral Health
Jun 2018 - Present (7 years 2 months)
Performed functional analyses of individuals with mental health, socio-emotional, intellectual disabilities conditions in the behavioral health Psychiatric Inpatient Department (Adults and Children). Developed and implemented Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies in order to assist those individuals with social, emotional, educational, and independent skills to return to active living and engage
Therapeutic Behavior Intervention Specialist
Catholic Guardian Services
Jun 2017 - Present (8 years 2 months)
Performed functional analyses of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and Autism in Residential setting. Developed and implemented Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies in order to assist those individuals with social, emotional, educational, and independent skills.
Director of Student Services/Psychology Instructor
St. Paul's School of Nursing
Dec 2016 - Present (8 years 8 months)
Performed supervision of student services at St. Paul’s SON-Queens Campus inclusive of counseling, teaching, and coordinating special events with the Student Council Committee in order to provide students with the best possible opportunities for continued success towards their dreams and aspirations. Conducted observations of classrooms to pinpoint troubled students or those that may be in need of
Lead Behavior Intervention Specialist (Supervisory)
Quality Services for The Autistic Community
May 2015 - Present (10 years 3 months)
Performed functional analyses of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Day Habilitation, and developed and implemented Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies in order to assist those individuals with social, independent, and educational skills. Evaluated, screened, and treated OPWDD individuals with various disabilities.
Head Sabbath School Ministry (Youth)
No Limit Beulah Sabbath Pentecostal Church
Jul 2014 - Present (11 years 1 month)
Emphasized foundational biblical tenets of commitment to God’s commandments, fellowship development, Bible study, and commitment to others in becoming closer to God through the Son, Jesus Christ. Taught youth biblical principles for a solid foundation in relationship with Christ. Provided opportunity for fellowship through Bible study and discussion.
Life Skills Coach
Opportunity Charter School
Aug 2013 - Present (12 years)
Performed services to general education and students with disabilities in the Enriched Learning Environment of Core Curriculum by ensuring that they receive the life skills necessary to survive in the real world outside of their socio-emotional boundaries and assisting in mandated fulfillment of quality of services rendered through periodic student IEP program progress reporting. Provided life ski
Teacher/Tutor
Wyzant Tutoring Services
Apr 2013 - Present (12 years 4 months)
Taught and tutored in various subjects including, but not limited to Psychology, Special Needs, Writing, Study Skills, Social Work, etc. to various populations ranging from doctoral students to school aged children to special needs population. Provided tutoring to various populations in various subjects as mentioned above using Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies as teaching tools as well as a
Applied Behavior Analysis Provider/SETTS Provider/Parent Trainer
DMF Behavior Specialist (DOE Home Services)
Apr 2013 - Present (12 years 4 months)
Performed services to special needs children in the Least Restrictive Environment by ensuring that the mandate is fulfilled and quality of services rendered through periodic student IEP program progress reporting. Provided Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies as teaching tools for youths diagnosed with Autism, and Behavioral and Pervasive Disorders within the NYC DOE and Nassau BOCES school dis
Applied Behavior Analysis Provider/SETTS Provider/Parent Trainer
Access 7 Consulting, Inc. (Nassau BOCES)
Sep 2012 - Present (12 years 11 months)
Performed services to special needs children in the Least Restrictive Environment by ensuring that the mandate is fulfilled and quality of services rendered through periodic student IEP program progress reporting. Provided Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies as teaching tools for youths diagnosed with Autism, and Behavioral and Pervasive Disorders within the NYC DOE and Nassau BOCES school dis
Therapeutic Behavior Intervention Specialist
Institute for Community Living, Inc.
Aug 2010 - Present (15 years)
Performed functional analyses of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and Autism in Residential setting. Developed and implemented Applied Behavior Analysis methodologies in order to assist those individuals with social, emotional, educational, and independent skills.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Liberty University
Doctor of Education, Community Care & Pastoral Counseling
2022 -
Grade: 3.95 GPA
Pursuing a Doctorate in Community Care & Pastoral Counseling with a strong academic record. The program focuses on advanced counseling techniques and community support strategies.
Liberty University
Certificate, Pastoral Counseling
2017 - 2018
Grade: 4.0 GPA
Completed a Certificate in Pastoral Counseling, demonstrating specialized knowledge in providing spiritual and emotional support. Achieved a perfect GPA in this focused program.
National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists (NACBT)
National Certification, Cognitive Behavior Therapy
2016 - 2016
Obtained National Certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy from a recognized professional association. This certification validates expertise in CBT principles and application.
National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)
Board Certification, Special Education
2016 - 2016
Achieved Board Certification in Special Education from a leading national association. This credential signifies a high level of competence and commitment to special education practices.
Saint Joseph's University
Master of Science, Criminal Justice
2009 -
Earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Behavior Analysis. The program included an Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, reflecting a strong focus on behavioral principles.
University of Phoenix
Master of Arts, Organizational Management
2004 -
Completed a Master of Arts in Organizational Management, focusing on leadership and administrative principles. Graduated with Dean's List/Honors, indicating strong academic performance.
Pace University
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
1997 -
Obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, laying a foundational understanding of human behavior and mental processes. Graduated with Dean's List/Honors.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
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