TMG IRIS Consultant Biography
TMG IRIS Consultant Name: Debra Hanson
Joined TMG: March 2018
Phone Number: 844-864-8987
Email: IRISInfo@tmgwisconsin.com
Location & Experience
Other Experience:
Prior to joining TMG, I worked with people who are aging as well as people with physical and mental disabilities. I was a program manager, where I was responsible for the health, wellbeing and safety of each client. I had to assure that program was run according to state/county guidelines. This position required that I had some direct care duties which gave me access to their everyday struggles. I also have a degree in Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse program from Gateway Technical College. There, I gained experience working with individuals that struggle with substance abuse.
County/Region I'm Familiar with: La Crosse, Trempealeau
Languages or Communication Skills: English
More About Me
How do you Partner with people to 'clear the path ahead'?
The way I partner with people is by getting to know them and their needs, which will help me gain their trust and build a good working relationship. This will also help me direct them to available services that best fit their individual needs. I would support the decisions they make, be available for them when problems arise, and follow up in a timely manner. I would welcome suggestions to make sure they are satisfied with the services they are receiving, and if those services are not working for them, be able to make adjustments when needed.
What's your favorite thing about being an IRIS consultant?
My favorite part about being a TMG IRIS Consultant is helping people live self-determined lives. I think that giving the people I partner with control over their services is very important. I strongly believe in helping them live as independently as possible, and IRIS supports this belief.
What past experience prepared you to become an IRIS Consultant?
I have always worked in a managing position. I worked independently and have experience with scheduling my time to meet deadlines. In these roles I have had to be a leader and a problem solver. From my role as a manager in sales to managing a program at CCLS, I was successful in communicating with diverse populations. This experience has prepared me to be a highly-organized IRIS Consultant who knows how to work with a wide range of people.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I have many interests I engage in during my free time. My husband passed away in 2017, which has given me a whole new life to start living. He was a Vietnam Veteran, and I became interested in and wanted to provide support to those who have their own struggles. I also have an 8-year-old pit bull who I enjoy spending time with. I have become an advocate for the breed. My dog and I took some classes through the Humane Society, and he became a certified therapy dog. We are planning to do some volunteer work at the VA in the future. I am also trying to re-establish friendships, since I am now alone and trying to pick up my life.
