Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Catherine Fuller

Bronx,NY

Summary

Currently working to complete a MSW, I am an empathetic, ethical, culturally competent, and dedicated individual motivated to obtain a position within the Human Services field. By utilizing my current skills and continued education, I plan to re-enter the workforce and gain more skills and work experience to help improve the lives of those in need. I am working towards my full CASAC (under provisional status, CASAC-P), with almost 2 years of CASAC-T experience so far, looking to continue with my career. I am detail-oriented, with excellent interpersonal communication skills, computer skills, and a fast learner. I have great time management techniques, and an uniquely creative, innovative, yet efficient skillset. Culturally competent, I go above and beyond when it comes to serving all kinds of people in the community. Authorized to work in the US for any employer.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

CASAC-T

PAC Program
10.2020 - 02.2021
  • Provided counseling and support to individuals struggling with substance abuse issues; Facilitated group therapy sessions such as Reducing Recidivism, Stages of Change, and Relapse Prevention, promoting open communication and fostering a supportive environment; Provided crisis intervention services when needed.
  • Remained culturally competent and self-aware when working with diverse populations; Implemented evidence-based interventions, motivational interviewing (MI), CBT, DBT, etc; Assessed risk factors associated with relapse potential during individual sessions.
  • Developed Person-Centered individualized treatment goals and objectives in collaboration with clients; Monitored client progress and made necessary adjustments to treatment plans as needed; Provided relapse prevention education and worked with clients to explore and identify relapse prevention techniques and planning, as well as available community resources and other services; Provided referrals.
  • Maintained accurate and up-to-date client records, ensuring confidentiality at all times; Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate care and ensure continuity of services for clients, prioritizing confidentiality.
  • Focused on furthering knowledge and training within the field in order to utilize that knowledge and stay up to date on the latest evidence-based Person-Centered practices.

CASAC-T

Lower Eastside Service Center
08.2019 - 03.2020
  • Provided counseling and support using effective Therapeutic Communication techniques to individuals struggling with substance use issues in a Methadone Maintenance Treatment setting, while demonstrating cultural competence when working with a diverse caseload.
  • Educated clients on the effects of substance use, harm reduction, and provided resources for recovery support outside of therapy sessions; Collaborated with clients to help them develop coping skills and strategies to manage cravings and triggers, plan for relapse prevention.

CASAC-T

Harlem East Life Plan
05.2017 - 04.2018
  • Conducted intake assessments and interviews with clients to gather relevant information on presenting issues and documentation for treatment planning, and necessary services; assessed client needs and wants to determine the appropriate level of care.
  • Administered standardized assessment tools to evaluate substance use symptoms and functioning levels; Utilized EHR systems for accurate documentation of client interactions and treatment interventions, and maintained up-to-date client records, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with legal requirements.
  • Developed a strong rapport while utilizing evidence-based practices like MI while being culturally competent; Provided client education on illicit substance use, harm reduction, and relapse prevention; Encouraged and empowered clients to move through the Stages of Change and identify their strengths, while exploring unique strategies to work on their challenges.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions focused on various topics such as Early recovery, Relapse Prevention skills, and Art Therapy.
  • Participated in regular supervision meetings to discuss cases, receive feedback, and enhance professional development.
  • Collaborated with external agencies such as probation officers or child protective services when necessary for client advocacy purposes; Helped clients identify available community resources, made referrals for additional support services and aftercare.

Residential Counselor

Urban Resource Institute
11.2016 - 05.2017
  • Picked up clients from secure location; Conducted screenings, intake, and orientation into the facility; Assisted domestic violence victims with various needs, making sure facility was safe and secure by doing hourly rounds on each floor.
  • Provided feedback, fostered a safe environment for residents to open up and share, gave emotional support and counseling to residents, advocated for their needs; Guidance through the healing process; Developed strong therapeutic alliances with clients through active listening skills and empathy; Assisted clients in developing strategies for self-care and rebuilding their lives after leaving abusive relationships.
  • Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team including social workers, lawyers, medical, and mental health professionals to ensure comprehensive care for clients.
  • Maintained accurate client records while adhering to strict confidentiality guidelines and ethical standards.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development activities such as trainings and conferences to stay updated on best practices in domestic violence counseling.

Direct Support Professional

Center for Family Support
05.2016 - 10.2016
  • Provided direct care and support to individuals with disabilities, ensuring their safety, well-being, and quality of life; Assisted clients with daily living activities; Implemented strategies to promote independence in daily living skills such as personal hygiene, meal planning/preparation, and household management.
  • Demonstrated cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations; Developed positive relationships with clients through active listening, empathy, and effective communication; Implemented individualized care plans based on clients' specific needs and goals.
  • Provided transportation and accompanied clients to appointments, errands, and social outings; Assisted in coordinating these medical appointments, transportation, and errands; Administered medications according to prescribed schedules and documented any changes or reactions observed; Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team including doctors, therapists, and case managers to ensure comprehensive care for clients.
  • Maintained accurate records of client progress, behaviors, incidents, and medical information; Promoted socialization by organizing recreational activities and outings for clients to engage in the community; Advocated for the rights and interests of these individuals, and addressed any concerns or issues that arose.
  • Participated in ongoing training programs to enhance knowledge/skills related to disability services.

Volunteer Crisis Counselor

Crisis Text Line
10.2015 - 05.2016
  • Responded promptly to crisis calls and effectively managed high-stress situations with professionalism and empathy; Provided immediate crisis intervention and support to individuals experiencing mental health crises; Delivered compassionate counseling to clients from diverse backgrounds, fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment; Utilized active listening skills, along with warm and effective interpersonal communication skills to understand clients' concerns, validate their emotions, and provide appropriate guidance in times of crisis.
  • Documented all client interactions accurately and maintained confidentiality of sensitive information in compliance with legal requirements; Assessed clients' risks, needs, and developed personalized safety plans to ensure their well-being; Mandated Reporter.
  • Coordinated follow-up care for clients after crisis resolution, connecting them with ongoing mental health services as needed; Built rapport with online community and made referrals to proper organizations.
  • Participated in regular training sessions to enhance knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and stay updated on best practices in the field.

Customer Service Manager

Walmart Supercenter
01.2008 - 01.2010
  • Managed a team of over 60 employees including front end cashiers, customer service agents, greeters, and parking lot attendants; Ensured all items and pricing were accurate; Identified recurring issues reported by customers to identify solutions; Collaborated with multiple departments in the facility; Provided guidance and support to ensure high-quality customer interactions.
  • Created and maintained standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the customer service department, ensuring consistent delivery of exceptional service; Audited cash accounts and deposits during daily operations.
  • Led weekly team meetings to communicate updates, share best practices, and foster a positive work environment focused on delivering outstanding customer experiences.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations for team members, providing constructive feedback and identifying opportunities for growth and development; Created shift schedules for employees.
  • Collaborated with HR department to recruit, hire, and onboard new members of the customer service team.

Education

Master's degree - Social Work

National University
02-2027

No Degree - CASAC 350-Hour Course Completion

Lehman College
Bronx, NY
05-2025

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Columbia Southern University
01-2018

Associate of Arts - Human Services

Kaplan University
11-2015

Skills

  • Compelling Motivational Interviewing skills; Strong Therapeutic Communication techniques
    Able to carry out the CASAC 12 Core Functions effectively
    Stay Culturally Competent, prioritize Cultural Humility, be patient and empathetic, maintaining self-awareness
    Impressive interpersonal communication methods
    Detailed and timely clinical documentation
    Beneficial knowledge and utilization of various Counseling/Therapeutic Theories
    Prioritize Person-Centered Holistic care
    Apply CASAC Canon of Ethical Principles as well as NASW Code of Ethics into practice

Timeline

CASAC-T

PAC Program
10.2020 - 02.2021

CASAC-T

Lower Eastside Service Center
08.2019 - 03.2020

CASAC-T

Harlem East Life Plan
05.2017 - 04.2018

Residential Counselor

Urban Resource Institute
11.2016 - 05.2017

Direct Support Professional

Center for Family Support
05.2016 - 10.2016

Volunteer Crisis Counselor

Crisis Text Line
10.2015 - 05.2016

Customer Service Manager

Walmart Supercenter
01.2008 - 01.2010

Master's degree - Social Work

National University

No Degree - CASAC 350-Hour Course Completion

Lehman College

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Columbia Southern University

Associate of Arts - Human Services

Kaplan University