Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Degree
References
Timeline
Receptionist

Dana Voss

Gainesville,GA

Summary

Dedicated and passionate education and counseling professional seeking a leadership role in managing a team of educators focused on social-emotional learning (SEL). Leveraging a comprehensive background in curriculum development, instructional strategies, and a deep understanding of SEL principles, the aim is to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment. Committed to empowering educators to integrate SEL practices into their teaching methodologies, the goal is to enhance the overall well-being and emotional intelligence of both students and faculty members within the academic community.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

School Based Mental Health Therapist

Georgia Hope
08.2023 - Current
  • Provide one-on-one counseling sessions to students, addressing a range of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues
  • Respond promptly to crisis situations, offering immediate support and implementing crisis intervention strategies to ensure the well-being of students
  • Work closely with teachers, administrators, and other school personnel to understand and address the mental health needs of students in the context of the school environment
  • Establish effective communication with parents or guardians, providing feedback on student progress and involving them in the therapeutic process when appropriate
  • Design individualized treatment plans based on assessment findings, incorporating evidence-based therapeutic interventions to achieve desired outcomes
  • Advocate for the mental health needs of students within the school system, collaborating with relevant stakeholders to create a supportive and inclusive educational environment
  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of counseling sessions, assessments, and interventions, and provide regular reports to school administration and, if necessary, external agencies
  • Engage in ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance skills, knowledge, and stay current with advancements in mental health practices and education.
  • Improved client mental health by utilizing evidence-based therapeutic techniques and interventions.
  • Developed comprehensive treatment plans for clients to address specific mental health concerns and goals.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to provide holistic care for clients, addressing physical, emotional, and social needs.
  • Maintained detailed documentation of client progress, effectively communicating with other healthcare providers as necessary.
  • Provided crisis intervention services to clients experiencing acute mental health distress, ensuring safety and stabilization.
  • Tailored therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of diverse client populations, including individuals with substance use disorders and trauma histories.
  • Expanded professional knowledge through ongoing continuing education opportunities and participation in relevant workshops and conferences.
  • Promoted positive coping strategies among clients by teaching stress management techniques and self-care practices.
  • Established strong rapport with clients by demonstrating empathy, active listening skills, and cultural sensitivity.
  • Facilitated family therapy sessions to support communication, boundary setting, and healthy relationships among family members affected by mental health issues.
  • Implemented behavioral modification techniques for clients struggling with unhealthy patterns of behavior or thought processes contributing to their mental health challenges.
  • Advocated for clients'' needs within the broader healthcare system when necessary to ensure access to appropriate resources or accommodations during the treatment process.
  • Reduced client symptoms of anxiety and depression with cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, mindfulness exercises, and psychodynamic approaches.
  • Provided clients with recommendations to community resources.
  • Consulted with other staff members regarding treatment plans as deemed appropriate by team leader.

Learning Specialist

Gulliver Schools
10.2022 - 07.2023
  • Tailored instructional strategies and materials to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities, ensuring an inclusive and supportive learning environment
  • Conducted assessments to identify learning challenges, collaborating with educators and parents to develop targeted interventions and accommodations
  • Worked closely with teachers, administrators, and support staff to design and implement effective learning plans, fostering a collaborative approach to student success
  • Assessed and monitored student progress, adjusting instructional approaches as needed to facilitate academic growth and mastery of skills
  • Served as an advocate for students with learning differences, collaborating with parents, educators, and external specialists to ensure appropriate support services and accommodations were in place
  • Utilized data-driven decision-making processes to analyze student performance trends, identify areas for improvement, and implement targeted interventions to address academic challenges
  • Integrated educational technologies and assistive tools into the learning process, leveraging technology to enhance accessibility and engagement for diverse learners.

Director of Homework Cafe & Special Ed Lead

Fusion Academy Miami
01.2018 - 10.2022
  • Initiated and spearheaded the creation of a vibrant and inclusive Homework Café/Student Center, elevating the overall student experience and fostering increased student engagement
  • Conducted thorough research and needs assessments to discern the specific requirements and preferences of the student body
  • Designed and implemented a diverse array of programs, clubs, and events catering to students' interests and needs
  • Recruited and trained a proficient team of educators to manage daily operations and activities within the Homework Café/Student Center, ensuring a seamless and supportive environment
  • Established strategic partnerships with local community organizations, providing students with mentorship opportunities, internships, and insightful guest speakers
  • Delivered targeted support to students in the development of executive functioning skills, enhancing their ability to excel in independent work and evolve as self-directed learners
  • Coached students and teachers in cultivating self-efficacy and advocacy skills, empowering them to set and achieve their academic and personal goals
  • Offered constructive feedback to teachers regarding the alignment of assigned independent work with students' diverse learning styles and needs
  • Implemented professional development training and learning opportunities for educators, fostering continuous growth and enhancement of their skills
  • Spearheaded the Special Education Department as a dedicated lead, overseeing and coordinating individualized education plans for diverse student populations
  • Collaborated with teachers, support staff, and parents to develop and implement effective strategies to meet the unique needs of students with diverse learning abilities
  • Facilitated professional development sessions to equip educators with the latest techniques and best practices in special education, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment
  • Acted as a liaison between the educational staff and other school stakeholders, promoting open communication and teamwork to create an inclusive and accommodating educational experience for all students.

Motivational Coach

Motivational Coaches of America
08.2015 - 07.2016
  • Empowered individuals to achieve personal and professional goals through one-on-one coaching sessions focused on motivation, goal-setting, and self-discovery
  • Facilitated the development of clear, achievable goals and action plans, providing clients with the tools and strategies needed to overcome obstacles and stay on track
  • Employed positive reinforcement techniques to foster a mindset of resilience and determination, creating an environment that encourages sustained motivation and a positive outlook
  • Tailored coaching approaches to meet the unique needs and aspirations of each client, recognizing and addressing specific challenges while emphasizing strengths and potential
  • Implemented systems for tracking progress and maintaining accountability, ensuring clients remain committed to their goals and experience measurable results
  • Guided clients in cultivating a growth mindset, promoting self-confidence, and overcoming self-limiting beliefs to unlock their full potential
  • Established open and constructive communication channels, fostering a trusting and supportive relationship with clients to facilitate honest discussions about challenges and successes
  • Integrated holistic approaches, including mindfulness and stress-management techniques, to address the interconnected nature of motivation, mental well-being, and overall life satisfaction
  • Stayed abreast of the latest research and trends in motivational coaching, regularly updating coaching methods to incorporate evidence-based practices and enhance the effectiveness of interventions.

Program Assistant/School Consultant

Center For Children And Families
05.2011 - 04.2016


  • Enhanced student support services, collaborating with counseling and intervention teams to provide targeted assistance for academic, social, and emotional well-being.
  • Established and developed a series of structured parenting group sessions specifically tailored to address the unique challenges and strategies related to raising children with ADHD.
  • Created comprehensive and engaging curriculum materials, incorporating evidence-based strategies for managing ADHD-related behaviors, fostering positive parent-child relationships.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and adherence to deadlines.
  • Assisted with planning and coordinating day-to-day and special program activities.
  • Created and updated records and files to maintain document compliance.
  • Led professional development sessions for educators, addressing emerging trends in education, instructional design, and assessment methods, resulting in a more skilled and motivated teaching staff.

Special Education Teacher

McGlannan School
08.2007 - 06.2011
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
  • Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.

Education

Certificate - Educational Therapy

University of California Riverside
Online
11.2018

Master of Science - Mental Health Counseling

Florida International University
Miami, FL
06.2012

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

University of Miami
Miami, FL
06.2004

Skills

  • Program Development
  • Leadership & Supervision
  • Creative Problem Solving
  • Written & Verbal Communication
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Developing Relationships
  • Active Listening
  • Social Emotional Learning
  • Research and Evaluation
  • Empathy Development
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder Support
  • Goal Setting
  • Social Skills Teacher

Certification

  • Certificate of Education in Animal Assisted Psychotherapy (CAAP) - Animal Assisted Therapy Programs of Colorado - Expected date of completion: December 2024
  • Educational Therapy - University of California, Riverside - 2017
  • Master of Science / Counselor Education - Florida International University - 2012
  • Bachelor of Arts / Psychology - University of Miami - 2004

Degree

MS

References

  • Amee Hall, Research Educator, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, 936-333-1236, ameehall@gmail.com
  • Maria Cardenas, Director of the Middle School EDGE Program, Gulliver Prep, 786-897-1015, mcardenas@gulliverprep.org

Timeline

School Based Mental Health Therapist

Georgia Hope
08.2023 - Current

Learning Specialist

Gulliver Schools
10.2022 - 07.2023

Director of Homework Cafe & Special Ed Lead

Fusion Academy Miami
01.2018 - 10.2022

Motivational Coach

Motivational Coaches of America
08.2015 - 07.2016

Program Assistant/School Consultant

Center For Children And Families
05.2011 - 04.2016

Special Education Teacher

McGlannan School
08.2007 - 06.2011

Certificate - Educational Therapy

University of California Riverside

Master of Science - Mental Health Counseling

Florida International University

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

University of Miami

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Dana Voss