Brenda MacDonald
Saugerties,NY
Summary
Compassionate Substance Use D/O Counselor and Mental Health Professional with experience in various therapeutic methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. Strengths include active listening, problem-solving, and empathy for patients of diverse backgrounds. Previous work impact includes improved patient outcomes through personalized treatment plans and fostering trust-based relationships.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Mental Health Professional/CASAC 2
Mental Health Association in Ulster County
Kingston, NY
05.2022 - Current
- Participate in the evidence based model ACT, as a SUD specialist, providing SMI clients with community located therapeutic services
- Develop, integrate and revise individualized service plans
- Coordinate necessary community services and identify potential gaps for each client
- Provide 24/7 crisis on-call services with a 6-week rotation
- Ensure effective communication channels are established and maintained with appropriate collateral contacts.
CASAC 2-Unit Clerk-NY Certified Lead Technician
WMC-HAHV-Benedicitine/Kingston Hospital
Kingston, NY8
06.1991 - 08.2024
- 1991 - 14 years of experience in the hospital pharmacy department, serving as Lead Technician responsible for supervising a team of technicians, conducting unit inspections to ensure medication safety and accuracy, managing medication inventory and billing processes, and manufacturing IV medications such as TPN and Chemotherapy.
- 2005 - The following 8 years, started as Unit Coordinator. Realizing I wanted more patient involvement, I switched departments. As the First Step detox/rehab unit coordinator, I was responsible for being the patients first point on contact with assessment prescreens. I was responsible to pIck up physicians orders and transcribe them to the patients MAR's. I implemented an insurance tracking system for nurses and clinicians. I was responsible to keep inventory of clients kitchen needs and office supplies.
- 2011 - Having receiving several performance evaluations that encouraged becoming a counselor, I started the process. Within 2 years, I completed the course and passed the exam. Due to obtaining my certification in 2013, I benefited grandfathered status, CASAC 2.
- Follow protocols for Joint Commissions, DOH and OASAS according to set guidelines
CASAC 2
TCRS Greene Co Clinic
Catskill, NY
08.2018 - 05.2022
- Conducted client assessments, determined appropriate level of care and facilitated group placement.
- Facilitated group sessions on a daily basis
- Adapted strategies to overcome obstacles caused by the COVID-19 pandemic
Education
High School Diploma -
Saugerties Senior High School
Saugerties, NY06-1989
Skills
- Outstanding communication
- Insurance approvals
- Exceptional patient care and interaction
- Crisis prevention intervention training
- Person centered approach
Certification
- Mandated Reporter
- BLS 5/05-Present
- Train the Trainer - Narcan Administration
Accomplishments
- Servant Leadership Award Recipient 2010 (WMC) An employee that is an example of a team player, as well as always being respectful and empathetic to the patients.
- Employee of the Quarter Recipient (2009) (WMC -Mary's Ave) nominated by the Clinicians and Nurses I worked with.
- Employee of the Quarter Recipient (2003) (Kingston Hospital) nominated by the Pharmacist I worked with.
Affiliations
- Member of the Saxton Fire Company Auxiliary for over 20 years.
- Volunteered for the MHA Fundraising Committee
- Participated/Volunteered with Hope Rocks - Suicide and Addiction Awareness Festival
Timeline
Mental Health Professional/CASAC 2
Mental Health Association in Ulster County
05.2022 - Current
CASAC 2
TCRS Greene Co Clinic
08.2018 - 05.2022
CASAC 2-Unit Clerk-NY Certified Lead Technician
WMC-HAHV-Benedicitine/Kingston Hospital
06.1991 - 08.2024
High School Diploma -
Saugerties Senior High School
- Mandated Reporter
- BLS 5/05-Present
- Train the Trainer - Narcan Administration
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