CARLA E. CUELLAR

Dynamic Clinical Social Work Intern at Metropolitan Family Services with expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and effective communication. Achieved significant client retention through tailored interventions and cultural competence, empowering survivors of domestic violence. Proven ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, enhancing community outreach and delivering impactful psychoeducation strategies. Compassionate professional in healthcare social work, known for high productivity and efficient task completion. Skilled in patient advocacy, crisis intervention, and care coordination. Excel in communication, empathy, and problem-solving to support patient well-being and facilitate effective healthcare services delivery. Compassionate Social Work Intern possessing comprehensive experience in providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Strength lies in ability to establish rapport with clients of diverse backgrounds, assess treatment needs, and implement effective therapeutic interventions. Notable for contributions to interdisciplinary treatment teams and commitment to enhancing client wellbeing.

Clinical Social Work Intern – Domestic Violence Program, Metropolitan Family Services, Chicago, IL, 09/23, Present, Provide individual trauma-informed therapy and psychoeducation to domestic violence survivors (ages 4–60+) utilizing evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy., Designed tailored treatment plans based on clients' unique needs, ensuring flexibility and safety in delivery (in-person or telehealth sessions)., Conducted PLC-5 and DV screenings to assess trauma symptoms and mental health needs, identifying early intervention opportunities and collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams for optimal client care., Worked with clients to develop personalized coping strategies, self-empowerment tools, and safe future planning, resulting in clients reporting increased emotional regulation and improved self-efficacy., Supported clients through holistic recovery processes, including referrals to housing, legal, and medical resources, ensuring comprehensive support for their journey toward independence and healing., Facilitated Spanish-language support groups for survivors, enhancing community-building and helping clients share resilience strategies, coping mechanisms, and personal recovery narratives., Tracked and documented client progress, ensuring the delivery of tailored interventions while maintaining a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment., Demonstrated client resilience by reporting significant progress in emotional well-being, reduced trauma symptoms, and positive lifestyle changes, as evidenced by client feedback and follow-up assessments., Adapted interventions to meet the needs of immigrant families, recognizing the cultural dynamics and providing resources in Spanish to bridge language barriers, ensuring clients felt heard and understood., Enhanced client outcomes through consistent follow-up care, offering continued support after each session, resulting in higher retention rates and positive therapeutic outcomes., Supported clients’ empowerment by educating them about healthy relationships, boundaries, and self-care practices, which led to improvements in relationship dynamics and personal confidence., Improved Client Outcomes: Clients in the program have demonstrated significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, increased self-esteem, and greater emotional stability as a result of sustained therapeutic interventions., Client Retention: Implemented follow-up and safety planning strategies that improved client retention rates and engagement in the recovery process, with over 80% of clients remaining committed to their healing plans., Bilingual Services: Facilitated effective treatment through Spanish-language therapy, ensuring clients received culturally competent care and addressing language barriers to improve accessibility., Group Therapy Success: Successfully facilitated group sessions, with participants reporting increased emotional support, stronger coping skills, and a sense of community with other survivors.

• LSW, Licensed Social Worker (Pending Application, Illinois)
• Certified Domestic Violence Professional
• Family Specialist Credential (FSC)
• Child Welfare Certification, Completed and passed required exams (CWEL, Placement, CANS, and others for DCFS eligibility)