Compassionate clinical mental health counselor who is experienced in addiction treatment, the Illinois DJJ system, and DASA regulations, with a background in facilitating individual and group therapy sessions for diverse populations, including youth and adults. Possess strong skills in cognitive behavioral therapy, substance abuse issues, trauma-focused, and crisis intervention strategies. Demonstrated ability to establish strong rapport with clients and effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Previous work resulted in significant improvements in client mental health, and substance abuse issues.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Lifelong Access
Bloomington
12.2024 - Current
Provided individual and family counseling sessions to adults and youth with mental health issues and substance abuse issues.
Provides counseling for adults and youth, with a focus on trauma.
Works with a diverse community, including youth and adults with disabilities, with a specialization in youth with autism.
Engaged in research projects related to evidence-based practices for treating mental illness.
Developed treatment plans outlining goals and objectives for each client's progress.
Created a safe environment that encouraged open communication among clients and staff members.
Facilitated group therapy sessions to help clients process their emotions and develop coping strategies.
Assisted clients in developing life skills, including problem-solving, communication, decision-making, anger management, self-esteem building and conflict resolution.
Provided individualized therapeutic counseling to youth and adults.
Substance Abuse Case Manager
Chestnut Health Systems
Bloomington
05.2024 - 12.2024
Facilitated group and individual counseling sessions that focused on relapse prevention techniques.
Developed and implemented individualized treatment plans for clients with substance abuse issues.
Attended weekly staff meetings to discuss clinical cases, review best practices, and develop strategies for providing optimal care for clients.
Provided family therapy sessions to assist in identifying areas of conflict within families related to substance abuse issues.
Supported clients through the withdrawal process by providing emotional support and monitoring vital signs if needed.
Monitored client progress towards goals set during treatment planning sessions and made necessary adjustments accordingly.
Crisis Intervention Caseworker for Youth
The Center For Youth And Family Solutions
Bloomington
02.2023 - 05.2024
Conduct clinical intakes and assessments.
Facilitated individual and group counseling sessions.
Counseled youth involved in the justice system by providing trauma-informed individual and group counseling.
Provided counseling to individuals with substance abuse challenges.
Maintained accurate clinical documentation according to agency standards.
Provided crisis intervention services for clients experiencing acute distress or suicidal ideation.
Developed individualized service plans based on client's strengths and identified needs.
Facilitated group sessions focusing on topics such as life skills development and conflict resolution.
Provided emotional support and guidance to individuals dealing with a variety of life issues, including grief, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and relationship conflicts.
Family Support Specialist
Addus/DCFS
Charleston
12.2020 - 12.2022
Developed and implemented individualized service plans for clients.
Maintained detailed records of client interactions, progress, and outcomes.
Conducted home visits to assess family dynamics and needs.
Monitored progress of clients towards goals established in treatment plans.
Assisted in crisis intervention when needed to provide immediate support for clients in distress.
Provided individual and group counseling to clients struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues.
Implemented evidence-based interventions based on best practices in the field of mental health counseling.
Legal Secretary
State Farm
Bloomington
08.2013 - 12.2020
Coordinated court filings including scheduling hearings, filing deadlines and calendaring events.
Drafted, edited and finalized legal documents such as contracts, pleadings and motions.
Assisted in trial preparation activities such as organizing exhibits, preparing witness binders and assembling jury instructions.
Scheduled depositions, mediations and arbitrations with parties involved in litigation cases.
Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Livelong Access
BLOOMINGTON
Education
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN
12-2020
Master of Science - LPC With A Specialization in Substance Abuse
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN
Skills
Crisis intervention
Trauma-informed care
Individual counseling
Substance abuse treatment
Evidence-based practices
Group therapy facilitation
Client assessment
Treatment planning
Effective communication
Substance abuse counseling
Mental health diagnosis
Certification
Certified to facilitate MRT
CPR certified
IM+CANS (Illinois Medicaid CANS) [Lifespan]
Currently working towards obtaining my CADC
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Lifelong Access
12.2024 - Current
Substance Abuse Case Manager
Chestnut Health Systems
05.2024 - 12.2024
Crisis Intervention Caseworker for Youth
The Center For Youth And Family Solutions
02.2023 - 05.2024
Family Support Specialist
Addus/DCFS
12.2020 - 12.2022
Legal Secretary
State Farm
08.2013 - 12.2020
Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Livelong Access
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Walden University
Master of Science - LPC With A Specialization in Substance Abuse