Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Benjamin Virden

Boyce,LA

Summary

Dynamic Addictions Counselor with45 years extensive experience in the human service field, specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy and crisis intervention. Proven track record in developing personalized treatment plans and fostering client growth through effective progress monitoring and compassionate support. Committed to enhancing client well-being and implementing evidence-based practices for lasting change.

Overview

45
45
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Addictions Counselor

Avoyelles Adult Drug Court
Boyce, LA
07.2017 - 06.2025
  • Maintained accurate and up-to-date records of client progress and treatment plans.
  • Provided individual and group counseling sessions for clients.
  • Coached clients on how to manage emotions effectively while also teaching them how to recognize warning signs of distress before it becomes overwhelming.
  • Created an environment that was safe, supportive, and conducive to learning for all clients.
  • Assisted clients in developing healthy coping skills that could be used during times of stress or difficulty.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care for clients.
  • Developed crisis intervention strategies for individuals facing difficult situations or events.
  • Implemented therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness training into practice.
  • Utilized evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
  • Researched best practices in the field of counseling in order to stay current on evidence based treatments.
  • Documented meetings, interventions and contacts with clients to optimize care.
  • Helped clients find solutions by teaching appropriate intervention techniques.
  • Developed and implemented treatment plans based on client assessments and needs.
  • Monitored client progress through regular follow-up sessions and adjusted treatment plans as necessary.
  • Obtained or maintained proper licensure or certification to meet state requirements.
  • Engaged clients in goal-setting and action planning to promote personal growth and positive life changes.
  • Engaged in continuous professional development to stay informed about the latest counseling techniques and theories.
  • Maintained confidential client records and case notes in compliance with ethical standards and legal requirements.
  • Utilized evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
  • Listened to personal stories, asked probing questions and offered knowledgeable advice for different situations.
  • Referred individuals to outside resources and services for additional support.
  • Kept pace with changes in research on diagnostic and treatment protocols to give best possible support to clients.
  • Encouraged development of relevant skills to help overcome specific concerns.
  • Assisted clients with developing relevant skills to improve functionality in social, educational and vocational situations.
  • Completed detailed documentation of sessions, patient notes and recommendations.
  • Met with clients to understand individual needs and develop personalized counseling plans.

Counselor

Rapides Adult Drug Court
Alexandria, LA
01.2011 - 07.2017
  • Same duties as mentioned in Employment at Avoyelles Adult Drug Court

Social Service Counselor

State Of Louisiana Department Office of Behavioral
Pineville, LA
09.1996 - 11.2010
  • Monitored progress of clients throughout the course of treatment and documented changes accordingly.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions with clients to help them develop positive coping strategies for dealing with difficult emotions.
  • Provided counseling and support services to clients in order to identify and address their social and emotional needs.
  • Conducted research on best practices related to social work counseling techniques.
  • Assessed client needs and developed individualized treatment plans accordingly.
  • Established trusting relationships with clients by providing a safe environment for discussing sensitive topics.
  • Assessed client's current level of functioning, identified strengths, weaknesses, and areas of need.
  • Identified appropriate community resources and provided referrals for services.
  • Interviewed clients individually and in groups to assess situations, capabilities and problems.
  • Established behavioral modification goals and assessed progress toward goals.
  • Supported individuals by facilitating weekly group sessions.
  • Maintained confidentiality through stringent handling of charts and data.
  • Participated in ongoing training to maintain license and enhance knowledge of relevant to addiction topics.

Psychiatric Aide

State of Louisiana Department of Hospitals
Pineville, LA
11.1980 - 09.1996
  • Performed clerical duties such as filing, scheduling appointments, answering phones.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of patient care activities in accordance with established protocols.
  • Assisted in the implementation of individualized treatment plans for patients with mental health disorders.
  • Implemented safety measures such as monitoring access points within facilities where psychiatric patients are housed.
  • Monitored vital signs such as pulse rate, temperature, respiration rate, blood pressure.
  • Encouraged patients to participate in recreational activities that promote physical activity and socialization skills.
  • Worked closely with other healthcare professionals such as nurses, therapists, and physicians to ensure quality care for all psychiatric patients.
  • Documented current patient information to update vital signs, behaviors, and eating habits.
  • Supported and encouraged psychiatric patients to promote health and wellness.
  • Prevented patient injuries using necessary restraints and appropriate supports.
  • Ensured compliance with health, safety, and privacy regulations.
  • Led recreational and therapeutic activities to promote patient well-being.
  • Monitored patient behavior and reported observations to psychiatric team.
  • Ensured safety and welfare of patients through constant supervision.
  • Implemented de-escalation techniques to manage aggressive behavior.
  • Assisted patients with daily living activities and encouraged independence.
  • Maintained patient records and documented care activities.
  • Maintained professionalism in emergency situations, assisting staff members in actions and monitoring patients.
  • Recorded and closely monitored patient behaviors and progress to effectively identify changes needing attention.
  • Supervised and secured patients restricted to assigned areas.
  • Prepared and accompanied patients on public outings, managing safety, behavior and other activities.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Addictive Disease Counseling

Baptist Christian College
Shreveport, LA
08-1996

Skills

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Crisis intervention
  • Client assessments
  • Treatment planning
  • Progress monitoring

Certification

  • Licensed Addiction counselor through La-ADRA.
  • Completed training in MRT.
  • Crossroads life skills.
  • Seeking safety.

Timeline

Addictions Counselor

Avoyelles Adult Drug Court
07.2017 - 06.2025

Counselor

Rapides Adult Drug Court
01.2011 - 07.2017

Social Service Counselor

State Of Louisiana Department Office of Behavioral
09.1996 - 11.2010

Psychiatric Aide

State of Louisiana Department of Hospitals
11.1980 - 09.1996

Bachelor of Science - Addictive Disease Counseling

Baptist Christian College

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