Sara Derreberry
Andrews
Summary
Social worker with extensive experience in crisis intervention and case management. Proven ability to develop effective treatment strategies and coordinate comprehensive service delivery. Strong advocacy skills with a focus on client empowerment and support.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Permanency Planning Lead Social Worker
Cherokee County Department of Social Services
Murphy
03.2022 - Current
- Collaborated with community organizations to coordinate social services.
- Provided crisis intervention support during emergencies and critical situations.
- Mentored junior staff on best practices in social work procedures.
- Maintained detailed client records in compliance with state regulations.
- Assessed risk factors associated with client behaviors and developed strategies for intervention.
- Provided case management to clients with complex social, emotional, and behavioral issues.
- Developed and implemented treatment plans for individuals and families.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized service plans for clients.
- Advised clients on available resources including housing, food assistance, employment opportunities.
- Served as a liaison between clients, families, providers, schools, courts.
- Monitored client progress towards established goals utilizing evidence-based practices.
- Conducted home visits to assess family dynamics and provide support.
- Coordinated services with other agencies to ensure comprehensive care.
Adult Protective Services Social Worker
Cherokee County Department of Social Services
Murphy
2011 - 2013
- Assessed client needs through interviews and home visits.
- Coordinated services with healthcare providers and community organizations.
- Advocated for clients' rights and access to social services.
- Documented case progress and maintained accurate records.
Child Protective Services Investigator
Cherokee County Department of Social Services
Murphy
2008 - 2011
- Conducted thorough investigations into reports of child abuse and neglect.
- Interviewed children, families, and witnesses to gather essential information.
- Prepared detailed reports documenting findings and recommendations for action.
- Assessed family situations to determine safety and well-being of children.
- Provided crisis intervention support to families in high-stress situations.
- Developed safety plans in partnership with families and service providers.
- Educated parents on resources available to improve family dynamics.
- Assessed risk factors for abuse or neglect within a household.
- Participated in training sessions to stay up-to-date on best practices for working with at-risk youth.
- Worked closely with social workers and other professionals involved in the case.
- Documented all activities related to cases including interviews, assessments, and observations.
- Regularly communicated progress updates with supervisors and other relevant parties.
- Attended court hearings related to child protective services cases.
- Monitored compliance of family members with court orders relating to child protection cases.
- Conducted home visits to assess safety and well-being of children.
- Responded promptly to emergency calls from community members concerning potential child maltreatment incidents.
- Adhered to state laws regarding confidentiality and reporting requirements.
- Investigated reports of suspected physical, emotional, sexual abuse or neglect of minors.
- Facilitated referrals to community resources as needed.
- Interviewed families, caregivers, and other professionals involved with the family in order to gather information.
- Consulted medical personnel when appropriate regarding injuries or illnesses that may be indicative of abuse or neglect.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies on investigations into allegations of child abuse or neglect.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Social Work
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC05-2005
Skills
- Crisis intervention
- Treatment planning
- Risk assessment
- Case management
- Regulatory compliance
- Community coordination
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Permanency Planning Lead Social Worker
Cherokee County Department of Social Services
03.2022 - Current
Adult Protective Services Social Worker
Cherokee County Department of Social Services
2011 - 2013
Child Protective Services Investigator
Cherokee County Department of Social Services
2008 - 2011
Bachelor of Arts - Social Work
Western Carolina University