Details
Skills
Professional Skills & Credentials
Peer Support Methodologies
Recovery Coaching (CCAR Certified Trainer)
Motivational Interviewing
Trauma-Informed Care
Group Facilitation & Psycho-educational Curricula
Crisis De-escalation & Intervention
Mental Health First Aid
Systems Navigation & Advocacy
Healthcare System Navigation
Patient Advocacy & Grievance Resolution
Resource Connection (SUD Treatment, Mental Health Services)
Community Outreach & Engagement
Cultural Competency
Program Leadership & Development
Program Design & Implementation
Grant Management & Reporting
Data-Driven Program Evaluation
Workshop & Training Facilitation
Strategic Planning & Governance
Technical & Administrative Proficiencies
Case Load Management
Meticulous Documentation
Project & Time Management
Critical Thinking & Creative Problem-Solving
Credentials & Certifications
Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) - Anticipated Certification: November 2025
CCAR Recovery Coach Academy Trainer (2017 - Present)
Adult Mental Health First Aid (Certified 2025 - 2028)
HIV/AIDS Counseling Aide Certification (NYS)
Peer Group Facilitation Training (Peer Seattle, 2025)
Previously held IDADC and CASAC Level 2 credentials
Languages
English (Fluent)
Spanish (Intermediate Proficiency)
About
Victor Velazquez
HIV+ Peer Navigator | Seattle, Washington
[LinkedIn Profile URL] | [Portfolio/Video Link]
Professional Profile
A dedicated Peer Navigator with 30 years of lived experience since an HIV diagnosis in 1994, combined with 20+ years of professional expertise in behavioral health and nonprofit leadership. I specialize in bridging the gap between clients and complex healthcare systems through authentic connection, trauma-informed advocacy, and proven strategies for improving health outcomes. My mission is to empower individuals to navigate their journeys with confidence and dignity.
Core Competencies & Skills
Peer Support & Crisis Intervention: Trauma-Informed Care, De-escalation, Motivational Interviewing, Recovery Coaching
Healthcare Navigation & Advocacy: System Navigation, Patient Advocacy, Resource Connection, Grievance Resolution
Program Development & Management: Curriculum Design, Grant Management, Program Evaluation, Workshop Facilitation
Specialized Knowledge: HIV/AIDS Care, Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Support, Mental Health First Aid, Stigma Reduction
Professional Skills: Multidisciplinary Collaboration, Fluent in Spanish, Project Management, Data-Driven Outcomes
Skill Highlights
Authentic Peer Connection: My personal journey since 1994 provides a profound foundation of empathy and resilience, allowing me to build immediate trust and serve as a credible role model for living a full life with HIV.
System Navigation & Advocacy: Expertly guide clients through complex healthcare and social service systems. I have a proven track record of resolving access barriers, connecting clients to essential resources like SUD treatment and mental health care, and ensuring their voices are heard.
Program Development & Engagement: Leverage over a decade of experience as a CCAR Recovery Coach Academy Trainer and non-profit leader to design and implement effective, client-centered programs. Skilled in using psycho-educational strategies to improve client adherence, retention, and overall engagement.
Collaborative Leadership: Excel in multidisciplinary team environments, partnering effectively with providers, case managers, and other advocates to ensure coordinated, wraparound care for clients.
Why I Am an Exceptional Fit
My unique value lies in the powerful synergy between my personal journey and my professional acumen. I don't just understand the theory of peer support; I have lived it. This allows me to meet clients exactly where they are, combining genuine empathy with strategic problem-solving to help them overcome barriers like stigma, mental health challenges, and systemic obstacles.
I am more than a navigator; I am a bridge-builder and a catalyst for change, dedicated to strengthening your team's impact and empowering every client I serve.
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