Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Julia Watkins, MS, LMHC

Ft. Pierce

Summary

With a proven track record at Suncoast Mental Health Center, I excel in utilizing cognitive-behavioral strategies and motivational interviewing to significantly enhance client well-being. My expertise in mental health support and HIPAA compliance, combined with a compassionate approach, has consistently improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Professional counselor equipped to guide clients through challenges and foster personal growth. Strong background in providing emotional support, conflict resolution, and developing coping strategies. Proven ability to collaborate effectively within team to achieve impactful results. Adaptable and dependable with focus on active listening, empathy, and problem-solving skills.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

Counselor

Suncoast Mental Health Center
10.2018 - Current
  • Assisted clients in setting realistic goals, developing action plans, and monitoring progress towards achievement.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of client interactions, assessments, and progress notes for effective case management.
  • Educated clients on available community resources, fostering a sense of empowerment and selfsufficiency.
  • Improved client satisfaction through consistent communication, empathy, and understanding of their unique challenges.
  • Guided clients in developing skills and strategies for dealing with problems.
  • Implemented behavioral modification strategies to help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms.
  • Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to encourage positive change in clients'' lives.
  • Used cognitive behavior therapy to assist clients in recognizing and redirecting poor habits.
  • Conducted assessments to determine progress and performance and report findings to relevant authorities.
  • Established trusting therapeutic alliances with clients through empathetic listening, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
  • Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in clients by utilizing cognitive-behavioral strategies.
  • Enhanced therapeutic alliance through empathetic listening and validation of client experiences.

Registered Nurse

Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute
05.1995 - 10.2019
  • Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
  • Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify changes in condition, promptly notifying physicians and initiating appropriate interventions when necessary.
  • Administered medications safely according to established guidelines while closely monitoring for side effects or adverse reactions requiring intervention.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing compassionate, holistic nursing care that addressed physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
  • Prevented the spread of infections by consistently adhering to strict infection control protocols and educating patients on proper hygiene practices.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for complex patients with multiple comorbidities.
  • Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
  • Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and individualized care plans.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
  • Promoted a culture of safety within the healthcare facility by participating in quality improvement initiatives, identifying potential hazards, and advocating for best practices in nursing care delivery.
  • Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management.

Education

Master of Science - Clinical Psychology

Walden University
Minneapolis, MN
05-2016

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education

Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL
06-2005

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL
05-1995

Skills

  • Skilled in intake interviewing
  • Counseling
  • Mental health support
  • HIPAA
  • Self-care strategies

Timeline

Counselor

Suncoast Mental Health Center
10.2018 - Current

Registered Nurse

Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute
05.1995 - 10.2019

Master of Science - Clinical Psychology

Walden University

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education

Florida Atlantic University

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Florida Atlantic University
Julia Watkins, MS, LMHC