CLAIRE Alfaro

On-site lead therapist for multiple school sites within the district. Provided short-term therapy to a school-based population. Maintained a caseload of 30+ clients, ages ranging from 5-18 years old. Conducted initial assessments of clients to determine mental health needs, and create treatment plans. Provided psycho-education on different psychological disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma symptoms, as a newcomer, or other life-changing events or adjustments. Advised clients on proper nutrition, exercise habits, sleep hygiene practices. For overall wellness, I conducted family therapy sessions and also collaborated with parents and staff to support clients' overall goals. Provided psycho-education regarding various psychological disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Acted as a client advocate, coordinating required services and resolving emergency problems in crisis situations. Conducted risk assessments for clients related to suicide ideation. Provided crisis intervention services, encompassing risk assessment, and safety planning.

• Provided consistent support to a diverse group of up to 25 clients on a school-based caseload, conducting small group activities throughout the year.
• Conducted initial screenings and assessments of clients to determine mental health needs.
• Assisted in the development of educational materials related to mental health issues for use within the community.
• Supported clients in developing self-understanding and strengthening connections by encouraging dialogue about feelings and life experiences.
• Maintained accurate documentation of client contact in accordance with agency policies and procedures using an electronic health record.
• Facilitated group therapy sessions on topics such as coping skills, anger management, anxiety reduction, stress management.
• Provided referrals for additional services such as housing assistance or vocational training when necessary.
• Monitored client progress through review of clinical records and feedback from family members or other involved parties.
• Attended workshops and trainings to stay updated with the latest advancements in mental health practices.
• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care for complex cases.
• Assisted clients in developing strategies for dealing with difficult situations that could lead to relapse or further deterioration of mental health status.
• Developed individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients and other professionals as needed.
• Provided in-depth knowledge to clients and families regarding mental illness diagnoses, medications, side effects, as well as pertinent information on community resources.
• Provided psychoeducation on different psychological disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD.
• Acted as client advocate, coordinating required services and resolving emergency problems in crisis situations.
• Conducted risk assessments for clients related to suicide attempts and harm towards others. Provided crisis intervention services, encompassing risk assessment and safety planning.

• Under direct supervision from a professional licensed counselor social worker (LCSW), learned first-hand practical application skills and assisted with applying a broad and diverse range of clinical mental health counseling techniques for middle school students
• Actively participated with both parent and teacher meetings, and mediated discussions to support each student’s specific needs
• Managed complete case workloads for 10+ students, 2 groups, and 5+ daily drop-in mediation sessions for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders
• Accumulated 1,000+ internship hours to complete Argosy University’s rigorous graduate degree program requirements.