Karishma joined LifeCare in July 2016, and in her current role as Parenting and Education Specialist, she is responsible for receiving phone calls from members and completing needs assessment intakes that range from child care, academics, special needs, prenatal, parenting and more. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Development/Family Studies and Psychology from the University of Connecticut. Karishma currently lives in Milford, CT. She enjoys being outdoors, going to the gym and loves eating sushi.
Q: When a member calls, what is the first thing you ask?
A: The first thing I ask is how they are doing, followed by what their exact needs are and to elaborate on them so we can better assist.
Q: How do you approach each call?
A: I approach each call with a friendly and soft tone as well as openness and readiness to prepare for what may or may not be challenging. I try to approach each call with empathy and try to put myself in their shoes to better understand their situation.
Q: What is your goal for each case?
A: My goal is to make sure all bases have been covered, that I have exhausted the search options and send information that most closely fits the member’s needs.
Q: What are some memorable cases you’ve worked on?
A: One memorable case that I’ve worked on was after speaking to the member, I was searching for in-patient facilities for a 13 year old that had a history of attempting suicide many times in the past, and she needed the resources as soon as possible. I have never connected more than with this mother who was in terror and fear hoping that we could find a center suitable for her child. After doing extensive research, I was able to locate multiple referrals for in-patient facilities that could accommodate the member’s needs. The member said they were perfect fits and she was very thankful for our service. I then followed up with the member to make sure she received her materials and even spoke with her weeks after to make sure her daughter was doing okay. I still think about this member from time to time.
Q: What is the best part of your job?
A: The best part of my job is knowing that I made a difference in members lives and that is the most rewarding feeling. Also, when I receive positive feedback from the cases I’ve completed reminds me that I am helping others and it makes me feel proud of the company I work for.
Q: What is the hardest part of your job?
A: The hardest part of my job is taking phone calls that are very sensitive in nature and helping someone cope through their difficult issue. Sometimes after building a connection, I wonder how the member is doing after a few days which reminds me to follow up with them.
Q: How do you connect with the members you help?
A: I connect with the members I help by empathizing with their situation and asking as many questions as I can in order to better understand them.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who doesn’t know if LifeCare can help them?
A: I would tell them to give us a try and see what we can come up with. We can provide resources on almost anything so it doesn’t hurt for them to at least call to make the initial step.
Q: In your opinion, what makes your role/team so special?
A: I have a passion for helping people and making a difference, especially when it comes to child care. I am proud to be on the Parenting and Education Team because my goal is to assist families to the best of my abilities and leave them feeling relieved that they called us.
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