Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Cierra Carter

Stafford,VA

Summary

Dynamic Mental Health Professional with extensive experience at National Counseling Group, adept at developing comprehensive treatment plans and fostering strong client relationships. Proven ability to enhance patient outcomes through effective communication and empathy. Skilled in crisis intervention and case documentation, consistently advocating for client needs and promoting holistic care strategies.

Overview

3
3
years of professional experience

Work History

Mental Health Professional LE

National Counseling Group
08.2023 - Current
  • Provided targeted therapeutic interventions for clients experiencing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety disorders, depression, and trauma-related issues.
  • Provided clients with recommendations to community resources.
  • Documented client progress in confidential files.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to create holistic care plans for patients, addressing both mental and physical health needs.
  • Maintained strong working relationships with community organizations to facilitate referrals and provide comprehensive resources for clients'' ongoing care needs.
  • Improved patient outcomes by developing and implementing comprehensive mental health treatment plans.
  • Performed client assessments and developed treatment plans.
  • Continually expanded professional knowledge through participation in relevant training workshops and conferences to enhance service delivery quality.
  • Encouraged clients to express feelings and discuss what was happening in day-to-day life in order to help each person develop insight into personal experiences and relationships
  • Evaluated patients and implemented comprehensive treatment plans to enhance mental health.
  • Coordinated with primary care providers to ensure seamless integration of mental health services into overall healthcare plans for patients with comorbid conditions.
  • Managed crisis situations effectively, deescalating potentially dangerous behavior and ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
  • Delivered group therapy sessions focused on specific mental health topics, fostering peer support amongst participants and promoting skill development.
  • Increased client retention rates by consistently demonstrating empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to excellent patient care.
  • Attended trainings to participate in regular supervision and continued education to maintain professional competence and ethical standards.
  • Documented clients' progress to keep detailed notes on each client's treatment progress and changes in mental health status.
  • Adhered to ethical and legal standards for confidentiality, protecting clients' privacy.
  • Provided referrals to connect clients with other community resources to support mental health and well-being.
  • Guided clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
  • Conducted crisis interventions to respond to clients in crisis, assess immediate needs and provide support and resources.
  • Consulted with other staff members regarding treatment plans as deemed appropriate by team leader.
  • Prepared reports to summarize clients' mental health status and treatment progress.
  • Completed one-on-one counseling with broad range of clients suffering from various diseases and issues.
  • Supported clients by representing needs and advocating for patient rights in healthcare, legal and community-based settings.
  • Took on roles of an Therapeutic Day Treatment counselor (in school building), Mental Health Skill Building counselor, Intensive In-Home counselor, Outpatient therapist, and an Assessor.

Correctional Counselor Intern

Riverside Regional Jail
01.2022 - 05.2023
  • Counseled inmates either individually or group settings to bring problems to light and implement potential solutions.
  • Addressed behavior and stability of inmates to root out concerning connections or mental health issues.
  • Evaluated progress of inmates in jails and prisons to determine optimal intervention strategies.
  • Maintained accurate records of all counseling sessions, assessments, and case plan updates in adherence with state regulations and facility policies.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams comprised of correctional officers, medical personnel, and other counselors to address complex needs of diverse inmate populations effectively.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions for inmates addressing substance abuse, anger management, and life skills development.
  • Coordinated with educational providers both within the facility and externally to create academic pathways for inmates that supported their rehabilitation goals and prepared them for post-release success.
  • Aided in successful inmate reentry into society through the development of comprehensive discharge plans that included housing, employment, and community support resources.
  • Performed routine home inspections and drug tests for offenders on parole.
  • Arranged substance abuse rehabilitation for offenders.
  • Monitored inmates' progress using questionnaires and psychological testing.
  • Gained valuable experience working within a specific industry, applying learned concepts directly into relevant work situations.
  • Sorted and organized files, spreadsheets, and reports.
  • Participated in workshops and presentations related to projects to gain knowledge.

Education

Master of Science - Social Work

Howard University
Washington, DC
08-2024

Bachelor of Science - Social Work

Virginia State University
Petersburg, VA
05-2023

Skills

  • Case documentation and confidentiality
  • Developing relationships and building rapport
  • Individual and group counseling
  • Empathy development and active listening
  • Teamwork and problem solving skills
  • Effective communication
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability

Timeline

Mental Health Professional LE

National Counseling Group
08.2023 - Current

Correctional Counselor Intern

Riverside Regional Jail
01.2022 - 05.2023

Master of Science - Social Work

Howard University

Bachelor of Science - Social Work

Virginia State University
Cierra Carter