Experienced Therapist specializing in trauma-informed care and cultural competency. Focused on enhancing mental health support for diverse populations through evidence-based techniques and strong rapport-building. Dedicated to advocating for clients and delivering effective therapeutic interventions.
Overview
20
years of professional experience
2
Certifications
Work History
COLLEEN SANDICK, LLC
Evergreen, Colorado
Therapist
04.2023 - Current
Job overview
Develop personalized treatment plans based on client assessments and goals.
Provide evidence-based therapy for women navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and recovery from alcoholism.
Maintained accurate and confidential client records in compliance with regulations.
Integrate EMDR training with IFS and CBT techniques to facilitate trauma processing and emotional regulation.
GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Atlanta, GA
Therapist
01.2019 - 01.2021
Job overview
Delivered individual counseling to diverse populations, addressing unique needs of various cultures, ages, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Conducted risk assessments to effectively prioritize therapeutic interventions based on client's urgency and needs.
Assisted clients in developing coping skills to better manage symptoms of mental illness or emotional distress.
Advocated for academic accommodations for students facing mental health challenges and life stressors.
Partnered with Athletic Department to implement on-site therapy sessions, improving mental health support for student athletes.
NORTHWESTERN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Chicago, IL
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Social Worker
08.2012 - 05.2014
Job overview
Promoted positive developmental outcomes for patients through assessment, advocacy, and supportive counseling.
Collaborated with medical personnel and ancillary services to create a supportive environment for families, positively impacting their overall experience.
Facilitated debriefing sessions for multidisciplinary teams during complex cases, enhancing communication and decision-making effectiveness.
Assessed and reported risks to Child Protective Services to ensure safe discharge plans for infants.
Provided critical counseling and support to parents facing health issues with newborns.
Advocated for patient rights within hospital and community settings, promoting access to appropriate care and resources.
NORTHWESTERN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Chicago, IL
Adult Intensive Care Unit Social Worker
10.2010 - 08.2012
Job overview
Managed social work services across five adult intensive care units, enhancing support for 120 critically ill patients.
Provided crisis intervention and emotional support to patients and families in distress.
Facilitated communication among patients, families, and medical staff to enhance care coordination and outcomes.
Facilitated end-of-life discussions among patients, families, and medical teams to ensure compassionate care and clarity during difficult times.
Conducted comprehensive assessments of patients' social needs and available resources.
Collaborated with general counsel on complex guardianship cases to ensure legal compliance.
Leveraged community programs to connect patients and families impacted by gang violence with vital resources and support services.
STEPPING STONES INTERNATIONAL
Mochudi, Botswana
Social Worker
02.2010 - 08.2010
Job overview
Developed strategy for managing over 70 orphans and vulnerable children, enhancing care and support systems for improved outcomes.
Designed sustainable solutions to address recurring challenges faced by families and individuals, fostering resilience and stability.
Advised on implementation of strategies, enhancing service delivery and outcomes for clients.
Mentored junior staff in case management practices and client interaction techniques.
Compiled research binders with culturally appropriate capacity-building strategies to strengthen community resources.
MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
New York, NY
On-Call Social Worker
10.2008 - 12.2009
Job overview
Provided crisis counseling for victims of rape, domestic violence, and assault, delivering essential support in high-pressure situations.
Executed crisis intervention for clients in immediate emotional distress, ensuring timely support and stabilization.
Responded to all after-hour emergency social work issues in 1,100-bed hospital promptly.
Collaborated with medical professionals to assess and report instances of child and elder abuse.
Assessed client needs through structured interviews and observations to develop tailored support plans.
Conducted bereavement counseling for women experiencing pregnancy loss, coordinating tailored ongoing support services.
MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
New York, NY
Surgical/Medical Social Worker
10.2007 - 12.2009
Job overview
Conducted psychosocial assessments and collaborated with medical teams to develop safe and effective discharge plans.
Coordinated discharge planning services, ensuring seamless transportation and home care arrangements post-hospitalization.
Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to assess patient needs and develop tailored interventions, ensuring comprehensive care.
Provided supportive counseling to patients with acute and chronic medical conditions, enhancing emotional well-being.
Coordinated referrals to community resources for housing and financial assistance, enhancing patient access to essential support services.
Instructed monthly in-service sessions for medical students and surgical residents on social worker roles.
INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR THE DISABLED
New York, NY
Social Work Intern
08.2006 - 05.2007
Job overview
Counseled adolescents and adults with mental illness and acquired brain injuries, enhancing resilience and developing effective coping strategies.
Co-facilitated job readiness groups, equipping participants with skills to secure employment and improve career prospects.
Created smoking prevention programs for adolescents facing mental health challenges, encouraging healthier lifestyle choices.
CENTER FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Palm Beach, FL
Family Service Coordinator
09.2005 - 06.2006
Job overview
Facilitated collaboration among parents and therapists to create tailored treatment plans for children with developmental delays.
Guided families through treatment processes to ensure seamless transitions into school-based services.
Connected families with community services to enhance access to essential support and resources.
Education
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK
NEW YORK, NY
Master of Science from Social Work
05.2007
NEW YORK CITY ADMINISTRATION FOR CHILDREN'S SERVICES
NEW YORK, NY
Certification from Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting
08.2006
FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY
BOCA RATON, FL
Bachelor of Social Work from Social Work
08.2005
University Overview
GPA: Magna Cum Laude
Skills
EMDR and IFS training
Cognitive behavioral techniques
Trauma-informed care
Psychosocial and diagnostic evaluation
Individual therapy sessions
Psychoeducational delivery
Cultural competency
Documentation compliance
Rapport building
Certification
IFS-Informed EMDR Therapy, Level I & Level II Training, Syzygy Institute - April 2024; January 2025
Volunteer Experience
Selective Mutism Association, State Coordinator and Support Group Facilitator for Georgia
Chicago Youth Programs, Tutor
Milagro Center, Student Mentor
Florida Atlantic University, Peer Health and Wellness Advocate
Licenses
DC, LC200002232
GA, CSW005230
MD, 30427
VA, 0904015632
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Therapist
COLLEEN SANDICK, LLC
04.2023 - Current
Therapist
GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY
01.2019 - 01.2021
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Social Worker
NORTHWESTERN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
08.2012 - 05.2014
Adult Intensive Care Unit Social Worker
NORTHWESTERN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
10.2010 - 08.2012
Social Worker
STEPPING STONES INTERNATIONAL
02.2010 - 08.2010
On-Call Social Worker
MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
10.2008 - 12.2009
Surgical/Medical Social Worker
MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
10.2007 - 12.2009
Social Work Intern
INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR THE DISABLED
08.2006 - 05.2007
Family Service Coordinator
CENTER FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT
09.2005 - 06.2006
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK
Master of Science from Social Work
NEW YORK CITY ADMINISTRATION FOR CHILDREN'S SERVICES
Certification from Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting
Private Practice Owner/Licensed Clinical Therapist at Self Employed|Happy Valley Counseling, LLCPrivate Practice Owner/Licensed Clinical Therapist at Self Employed|Happy Valley Counseling, LLC