Addison Wightman
Monrovia,United States
Summary
I am a compassionate Disability Specialist, finding joy in collaborating with individuals, both with and without disabilities. Leveraging my personal experiences as someone with disabilities, I am unwaveringly committed to offering comprehensive and empathetic support to disabled students. I strive to be of service to those encountering similar challenges. Dedicated to creating and securing inclusive learning environments, emphasizing disability justice and advocating for equity.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Disability Specialist
UCLA Center For Accessible Education
02.2022 - Current
- Successfully managed a diverse case-load of over 700 students, including Law School, MBA, and Veteran students as well as nursing and dental students.
- Collaborated with campus partners to establish streamlined services, enhancing support for students.
- Coordinated specialized accommodations for students enrolled in unique dual-degree programs.
- Contributed to the development of safety advisories, policies, and procedures aimed at minimizing classroom exposures.
- Utilized expertise in assessment instruments and psycho-educational reports to diagnose learning disabilities and functional limitations in adults.
- Determined personalized support services and accommodations for graduate and professional students.
- Provided counseling to empower students in effective disability management and compensatory strategies, contributing to their academic success.
- Developed and maintained efficient service processes, enhancing support delivery to a large and diverse student population.
- Played a pivotal role in interdisciplinary collaborations, resulting in comprehensive support for students in dual-degree programs.
- Leveraged in-depth knowledge of disability regulations to make informed decisions regarding accommodations and services.
Health Professions Trainee, NC
Department Of Veterans Affairs
04.2020 - 05.2021
- Assist in reviewing procedure regulations while developing effective rehab goals and objectives for Veterans with disabilities planning to return to workforce and become more independent.
- Conducted in-person and telephone interviews with veterans and advocates to explain benefits and related programs while being supervised.
- Gain knowledge, understanding analyzing claims to determine percentage of disability, permanent and total disability and entitlement to compensation.
- Coordinated program referrals for community-based resources.
- Gain knowledge, understanding in assessing functional limitations and determining appropriate plan for services.
EOPS and DSPS Intern Counselor
East Los Angeles College
10.2019 - 05.2021
- Utilized online learning platforms by teaching over 100 students how to navigate application process, enrollment, financial aid, transfer process and graduation requirements.
- Assisted counselors in academic sessions with education planning, career planning and provided new student orientations to help access DSPS and EOPS services and resources for over 100 students.
- Developed and led 20 workshops in EOPS and DSPS community to promote services, equity, social change and enhance outreach.
Primary Counselor and Case Manager
TAJ Treatment Centers, Inc
08.2018 - 05.2020
- Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans and connected clients and families to appropriate resources for over 300 clients.
- Directed family-centered, strengths-based, culturally competent and individualized intakes and assessments.
- Led supportive group discussions and education sessions with alcohol and drug users and families.
Transfer Mentor
UCLA
08.2016 - 06.2018
- Planned and promoted career and employment-related programs and events such as career planning presentations, work experience programs and career workshops.
- Provided counseling, guidance and recommended coping mechanisms for 25 new students dealing with difficult issues.
Addiction Counselor
Pasadena Recovery Center
08.2011 - 08.2016
- Led individual and group counseling sessions to meet variety of therapeutic needs for recovering individuals.
- Developed individual treatment plans and documented progress toward goals.
- Facilitated group and individual therapy in outpatient setting.
Education
Master of Science - Rehabilitation Counseling
California State University - Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA05.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University of California - Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA06.2018
Skills
- Assessment evaluation
- Cultural sensitivity
- Active listening
- Person centered counseling
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Disability management
Timeline
Disability Specialist
UCLA Center For Accessible Education
02.2022 - Current
Health Professions Trainee, NC
Department Of Veterans Affairs
04.2020 - 05.2021
EOPS and DSPS Intern Counselor
East Los Angeles College
10.2019 - 05.2021
Primary Counselor and Case Manager
TAJ Treatment Centers, Inc
08.2018 - 05.2020
Transfer Mentor
UCLA
08.2016 - 06.2018
Addiction Counselor
Pasadena Recovery Center
08.2011 - 08.2016
Master of Science - Rehabilitation Counseling
California State University - Los Angeles
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University of California - Los Angeles
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