Elena Surmen

Dedicated and empathetic Behavioral Health professional with extensive hands-on experience in residential and inpatient care, crisis intervention, patient observation, and group facilitation. Skilled at building therapeutic rapport, implementing de-escalation techniques, and empowering individuals through evidence-based coping strategies. Strong background working with diverse populations in mental health, trauma recovery, and patient advocacy.

Behavioral Health Technician - Ascension Saint Thomas - Nashville, TN

(2025-09)

• Conduct continuous patient observation and safety checks to ensure a secure therapeutic environment.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant patient documentation regarding behavioral progress, status changes, and routine care.
• Share coping skills, wellness tools, and structured experiences to assist patients in managing symptoms and achieving stabilization.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary clinical teams (nurses, psychiatrists, therapists) to deliver holistic, patient-centered care.

Recovery Care Specialist - Aster Springs - Nashville, TN

(2024-07 - 2025-09)

• Provided direct emotional support, crisis de-escalation, and therapeutic interventions to residential mental health clients.
• Supported and monitored clients during therapeutic meals, snacks, processing sessions, and daily structured programming.
• Facilitated therapeutic group sessions covering mindfulness, self-care, music/art therapy, and personal empowerment.
• Established strong, trusting relationships with clients while maintaining strict professional and clinical boundaries.
• Safely transported clients to medical appointments, community meetings, and therapeutic outings in company vehicles.

Domestic Violence Specialist - YWCA Domestic Violence Center - Nashville, TN

(2022-03 - 2024-03)

• Conducted crisis assessments and direct advocate interventions for individuals in high-risk, traumatic situations.
• Managed specialized computer database systems to organize, secure, and maintain confidential client data.

Victim Court Advocate - Legal Aid Society - Nashville, TN

(2022-06 - 2023-04)

• Guided and supported victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking through court hearings and legal procedures.
• Connected clients with vital community resources, including emergency housing, therapeutic services, legal aid, and child support.

Data Administrator - Behavioral Health Group - Las Vegas, NV

(2020-01 - 2022-03)

• Managed state-level computer systems storing substance abuse and addiction treatment data for the State of Nevada.
• Coordinated with local governmental agencies to streamline patient data delivery and improve system tracking accuracy.

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology - Lipscomb University (2025-08)

Associate of Arts - Psychology - College of Southern Nevada (2023-12)