Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Charles Lewis

Poughkeepsie,NY

Summary

Hardworking Peer Support Specialist committed to coaching peers through life challenges. Develops customized plans for individual issues. Engaging and outgoing with strong communication skills.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Certified Peer Support Specialist

Family Services Of Westchester
12.2020 - Current
  • Enhanced client recovery by providing emotional and practical support in group and one-on-one settings.
  • Improved the quality of care for clients by actively participating in treatment planning meetings and offering insights from a peer perspective.
  • Developed strong rapport with clients, fostering a trusting environment to encourage open communication about personal challenges and goals.
  • Led engaging support groups tailored to participants' unique needs, promoting healthy coping skills and strategies for maintaining wellness.
  • Assisted clients in identifying community resources and services, increasing their access to valuable support networks.
  • Conducted regular progress assessments, updating care plans to reflect evolving client goals and circumstances.
  • Provided crisis intervention when necessary, utilizing de-escalation techniques to maintain safety and stability within a supportive environment.

Mobile Crisis Counselor

NYC WELL
01.2018 - 03.2019
  • Counseled clients in individual and group sessions to assist in dealing with substance abuse, mental or physical illness, or physical abuse.
  • Interviewed clients, reviewed records, and conducted assessments to evaluate the mental or physical condition of clients or patients.
  • Collaborated with counselors, physicians, and nurses to plan or coordinate treatment, drawing on social work experience and patient needs.
  • Used active listening and collaborative problem-solving daily to connect with patients and address concerns.
  • Evaluated risk to clients or others by gathering information and conducting assessments.

Residential Aide

Project Renewal
11.2017 - 01.2018
  • Provided direct assistance, support, and care to clients residing in the shelter.
  • Managed day-to-day activities of operations.
  • Spent significant time supporting, assisting and enforcing shelter rules with clients.
  • During emergencies, contacted appropriate outside emergency response personnel (EMS, Police, Fire Department), appropriately documented in the staff communication book the names of those contacted, the time of the contact, and the action taken. Completed incident report and submitted by deadline.
  • Managed CARES and DHS client database.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Journalism/ History

St. Francis College
Brooklyn, NY
08.2024

Skills

  • Boundary Setting
  • Behavioral Management
  • Mental health awareness
  • Recovery planning
  • Stress Reduction
  • Empathy Development
  • Relationship-building skills
  • Excellent Communication
  • Communication abilities
  • Leadership skills
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Support Group Facilitation

Certification

  • NCPS - National Certified Peer Specialist
  • Facilitating Listening Circles - International Institute for Restorative Practices
  • First Aid/CPR Certified
  • Mental Health First Aid
  • Certified Mandated Reporter

Timeline

Certified Peer Support Specialist

Family Services Of Westchester
12.2020 - Current

Mobile Crisis Counselor

NYC WELL
01.2018 - 03.2019

Residential Aide

Project Renewal
11.2017 - 01.2018

Bachelor of Arts - Journalism/ History

St. Francis College
Charles Lewis