Lakeisha S. Alexander
Motivated and compassionate Drug and Alcohol Counselor Intern/Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with over 7 years of hands-on experience supporting individuals struggling with substance use and mental health challenges. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work, with a strong commitment to trauma-informed care, advocacy, and empowering underserved communities. Seeking a role where I can contribute my lived experience, clinical training, and deep dedication to serving others.
Work History
Direct Support Professional
2 Years 8 Months- Provided personalized support to individuals with disabilities, enhancing daily living skills and independence.
- Developed and implemented individualized care plans, ensuring alignment with clients' goals and needs.
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices in disability support services.
- Monitored client progress, documenting observations to inform adjustments in care strategies.
- Advocated for clients' rights and preferences within the healthcare system, promoting their dignity and autonomy.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate comprehensive services tailored to individual client needs.
- Maintained clean, safe, and well-organized patient environment.
- Documented progress notes thoroughly to track client achievements, concerns, or changes in behavior patterns that may need attention from the interdisciplinary team.
- Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
- Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
Admissions Counselor/CADC Intern
3 Years 11 Months- Manage all new admissions and discharges, completion of all intake documentation and orientation
- Conduct clinical assessments using ASAM criteria in NJSAMS
- Managed new admissions and discharges, ensuring completion of intake documentation and client orientation
- Followed up with clients engaging in substance-abuse treatment to ensure continuity of care
- Maintain a caseload of clients conduct and facilitate weekly individual group therapy
- Collected monitored urine screens weekly, documenting treatment plans and client progress in response to treatment
- Coordinate care with local and federal agencies when appropriate
Substance Abuse Counselor Intern
2 Years 9 Months- Monitored and discussed client treatment phases and adjusted MAT dosages to align with individual needs
- Conducted intakes, assessments, orientations, transfers, discharges, individual and group counseling
- Reported to and coordinated with State and Federal agencies
- Applied NJSAMS criteria and ASAM dimensions to effectively assess client progress and treatment planning
- Adhere to state requirements and regulations as well as program policies and procedures
- Utilize community resources for referrals and assistance
Education
Bachelor Of Social Work - Social Work
Addiction Counseling - CADC - Substance Abuse
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist - Peer Recovery
Associates Of Science - Associates of Applied Science
Skills
Affiliations
Tri County Continuum of Care, New Jersey
Board Member 2025 - Present
- Monitor existing homeless programs in Hunterdon, Sussex, and Warren Counties - NJ
- Assist in developing strategic plans to address homelessness.
- Assist in identifying and ranking the community's priority needs.
- Advocate for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
- Review policies and vote on standards.
Middlesex County Council for Children’s Services
Board Member 2025 - Present
- Develop a responsive, accessible and integrated system of services for children and their families.
- Identify plan and oversee the implementation of programs in Middlesex County which reflect the unmet needs and address gaps in services for Middlesex County youth.
Middlesex County NJ Prosecutors Office,
Volunteer 2019 - Present
• Motivate and inspire at-risk youth to improve self-esteem and boost peer-to-peer socialization.
• Collaborate with prosecutor’s office and the Department of Children and Families to devise new youth engagement strategies that foster growth and participation.
• Emphasize the importance of confidentiality and safety to attract youth engagement and build rapport
• Advocate for substance use harm-reduction strategies and programs.
• Promote the importance of anti-bullying programs and set healthy relationships and boundaries.
Certification
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist April 2024
Reference
Available upon request