Brenda Lastra
Linden,NJ
Summary
Graduate counseling student in Kean University's School Counseling program with LPC qualification, committed to providing supportive, client-centered care. Through my experience working with diverse and underserved youth and families, I’ve learned the importance of empathy, collaboration, and meeting clients where they are. I’ve supported children facing emotional, behavioral, and communication challenges using patience, reflective listening, and a strengths-based approach. I’m now seeking a supervised clinical practicum where I can continue developing my counseling skills, strengthen my assessment and documentation abilities, and contribute meaningfully to clients’ growth within a supportive environment.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
School-Based Applied Behavior Analysis Technician
First Children's Services
02.2025 - Current
• Provide one-on-one behavioral and emotional support to students with developmental, behavioral, and mental health needs in a classroom setting.
• Apply counseling-aligned techniques such as reflective listening, emotional validation, and goal‑focused support to help students build coping skills.
• Identify early behavioral or emotional distress signals and implement structured interventions to support regulation and engagement.
• Collaborate with BCBAs, teachers, and school counselors to develop student support plans and monitor progress.
At-Home Applied Behavior Analysis Technician
Bright Achievements
06.2023 - Current
• Build and maintain strong therapeutic rapport with clients using empathy, patience, and clear communication.
• Utilize crisis intervention and redirection strategies to support children during high‑stress emotional or behavioral moments.
• Implement individualized intervention plans and support clients with communication, problem‑solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Support families by modeling coping strategies and offering guidance for behavior and emotional regulation needs.
• Observe, document, and track patterns of behavior and session progress to support treatment planning and continuity of care.
Education
Master of Arts - Counseling: School Counseling & LPC Qualification
Kean University
Union, NJ05.2027
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology, Sociology & Health Education
Kean University
Union, NJ05.2021
Associate of Arts - undefined
Union County College
Cranford, NJ05.2019
Skills
- Crisis Intervention
- Active & Reflective Listening
- Data Tracking
- Case Management
- Cultural Awareness
- Fluent Spanish Speaker
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, iWork Suite, and Google Suite
Certification
- First Aid/CPR Certified
Timeline
School-Based Applied Behavior Analysis Technician
First Children's Services
02.2025 - Current
At-Home Applied Behavior Analysis Technician
Bright Achievements
06.2023 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology, Sociology & Health Education
Kean University
Associate of Arts - undefined
Union County College
Master of Arts - Counseling: School Counseling & LPC Qualification
Kean University