Amanda Tessmer
Isanti,MN
Summary
With excellent verbal and written communication skills, effectively convey complex information clearly. Strong customer service skills enable seamless interaction with individuals at all levels of an organization, including employees and management. Possess exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with keen attention to detail and audit capabilities. Proficient in computer skills to enhance capabilities. Outstanding organizational and project management skills for efficient multitasking.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Options Counselor
SEMCIL
04.2023 - Current
- Utilized complex client management systems, both digital and manual and maintained sensitive information in highly encrypted databases.
- Assisted clients in navigating complex social service systems, guiding them through application processes for public assistance programs or housing services.
- Maintained detailed records of client interactions, ensuring accurate documentation for future reference.
- Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to address clients needs holistically and efficiently.
- Participated in professional development opportunities regularly, staying up-to-date on best practices within the Human Services field
- Provided ongoing case management for clients, monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments to care plans.
- Assisted clients in accessing appropriate resources and services, improving their quality of life.
- Enhanced client autonomy by empowering them to make informed decisions regarding their care options.
- Advocated on behalf of clients, ensuring they received the necessary support from various agencies and providers.
School Counselor
St. Francis Middle School
08.2021 - 03.2023
- Enhanced student emotional well-being by providing individual and group counseling sessions.
- Collaborated with teachers and administrators to address the social, emotional, and academic needs of all students.
- Implemented data-driven strategies to identify areas of need within the school population, leading to targeted interventions and support services.
- Supported diverse learners with tailored counseling services to address unique needs and challenges effectively.
- Served as an advocate for at-risk youth within the middle school population by working closely with multidisciplinary teams focused on intervention efforts.
- Provided crisis intervention services during emergency situations, ensuring immediate support was available for affected individuals.
- Initiated peer mentorship program, pairing older students with younger ones for guidance and support throughout the school year.
- Promoted positive behavior among students through the implementation of school-wide behavior management strategies.
- Maintained detailed records of all counseling interactions to ensure continuity of care for each student over time.
School Counselor
Braham Area High School
08.2017 - 07.2021
- Enhanced student emotional well-being by providing individual and group counseling sessions.
- Collaborated with teachers and administrators to address the social, emotional, and academic needs of all students.
- Developed a safe and supportive school environment by promoting positive behavior and addressing issues such as bullying and harassment.
- Provided crisis intervention in response to emergencies, employing existing trust, and rapport to deescalate situations.
- Implemented data-driven strategies to identify areas of need within the school population, leading to targeted interventions and support services.
- Coordinated with outside agencies to determine students receive appropriate services and resources.
- Maintained a high level of professional development through continuous education, conference attendance, and participation in professional organizations related to school counseling.
- Promoted mental health awareness among staff members through training programs on topics such as stress management, self-care, and recognizing warning signs in students.
- Facilitated parent engagement through regular communication, informational sessions, and collaborative meetings to address student concerns.
- Advocated for student needs, resulting in adaptation of school policies to better support student well-being.
- Conducted regular evaluations of counseling programs to ensure effectiveness and adapt strategies as needed.
- Developed and maintained comprehensive student records, ensuring confidentiality and accurate tracking of student progress and interventions.
- Coordinated with community organizations to enhance support services and resources available to students.
Care Coordinator and Community Support Provider
Central Minnesota Mental Health Center
12.2013 - 12.2015
- Managed patient caseloads effectively, ensuring timely follow-up and appropriate interventions.
- Conducted regular evaluations of care plan effectiveness, making necessary adjustments based on feedback from patients and providers.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date documentation of patient records in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
- Assessed patient needs and connected them with appropriate resources to ensure optimal health outcomes.
- Provided emotional support for patients and families during difficult times, fostering resilience and coping skills.
- Supported clients in achieving greater independence by teaching valuable life skills such as budgeting, meal planning, and household management tasks.
- Connected clients with necessary resources, streamlining access to services and support systems.
- Advocated on behalf of clients during interactions with external organizations or service providers, ensuring appropriate accommodations were made when necessary.
- Facilitated community outreach to expand participation and support.
- Tracked service activities and outcomes against outlined plans and goals.
Psychiatric Technician
Aris Clinic
05.2011 - 12.2013
- Implemented crisis intervention protocols when necessary, ensuring the safety of all patients and staff members involved.
- Developed strong rapport with diverse patient populations through empathetic listening skills, helping them feel heard and understood.
- Utilized de-escalation techniques to manage challenging behaviors effectively, promoting a calm atmosphere conducive to healing.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date documentation of patient progress, facilitating effective communication among healthcare team members.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies based on individual patient needs, contributing to improved functioning within daily life activities.
- Assisted in patient goal-setting and regularly monitored progress, celebrating successes and addressing barriers to achievement.
- Provided compassionate support to patients during group therapy sessions, fostering trust and open communication.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans, improving overall patient outcomes.
- Increased patient engagement by introducing therapeutic activities tailored to individual needs.
Education
Master of Science in Professional School Counseling -
St. Cloud State University
St. Cloud, MN05.2017
Bachelor of Art in Psychology -
St. Cloud State University
St. Cloud, MN05.2011
Skills
- Client Advocacy
- Problem-Solving
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Multitasking
- Reliability
- Excellent Communication
- Organizational Skills
- Team Collaboration
- Active Listening
- Client Education
- Written Communication
Timeline
Options Counselor
SEMCIL
04.2023 - Current
School Counselor
St. Francis Middle School
08.2021 - 03.2023
School Counselor
Braham Area High School
08.2017 - 07.2021
Care Coordinator and Community Support Provider
Central Minnesota Mental Health Center
12.2013 - 12.2015
Psychiatric Technician
Aris Clinic
05.2011 - 12.2013
Master of Science in Professional School Counseling -
St. Cloud State University
Bachelor of Art in Psychology -
St. Cloud State University