Laura Drennen
Portland,OR
Summary
Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student with hands-on experience supporting individuals navigating mental health and substance use recovery. Committed to trauma-informed care, client advocacy, and integrative therapeutic approaches. Skilled at building rapport and therapeutic alliance with diverse populations. Known for adaptability and reliability in dynamic and challenging situations.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC 1)
Virtue at the Pointe Recovery
08.2024 - Current
- Provided individual and group counseling services for residential and outpatient clients.
- Facilitated group psychoeducational classes.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to align interventions and optimize treatment outcomes.
- Utilized electronic medical records (EMR) documentation, maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to determine client treatment needs and develop personalized treatment plans.
Veterans Service Representative (VSR)
Veterans Benefits Administration
07.2023 - 08.2024
- Advocated for veterans by facilitating the thorough development and evaluation of disability claims.
- Analyzed complex military and medical records to determine eligibility.
- Partnered with healthcare professionals to clarify medical evidence, ensuring comprehensive assessments and timely decisions.
- Maintained detailed case files and documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and facilitating efficient claims processing.
Transportation Security Officerxz
Transportation Security Administration
05.2022 - 07.2023
- Team lead and point of contact for travel, ensuring that team members stayed compliant with all policies, procedures, and regulations, including HR.
- Trained and mentored team members to navigate sophisticated governmental systems and adhere to complex regulations.
- Managed high-volume settings, maintaining regulatory standards and operational efficiency.
Community Manager
Linked: Seattle
02.2016 - 02.2020
- Designed and executed career networking events focused on employment and professional development.
- Facilitated partnerships between job seekers, recruiters, and employers.
- Managed event logistics, communications, and post-event impact reporting.
- Developed and executed community engagement strategies to enhance member interaction and satisfaction.
Director
Tree House Montessori Preschool & Childcare
06.2006 - 12.2015
- Founded and led a licensed early childhood education program with an emphasis on Montessori pedagogy.
- Oversaw all operations, including staff management, curriculum development, compliance, and community engagement.
- Created sustainable systems and mentored emerging educators. Cultivated a nurturing environment, fostering strong relationships among staff, students, and families, enhancing community engagement and support.
- Implemented innovative curriculum strategies that improved student engagement, resulting in measurable improvements in learning outcomes.
- Coordinated training sessions for staff, enhancing teaching techniques and fostering a culture of continuous professional development.
Education
Master of Science - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of The Cumberlands
Williamsburg, Kentucky12-2026
Bachelor of Arts - Business
Greeen River College
Auburn, WA12-2020
Associate of Science - Business Administration
Green River College
Auburn06-2018
Skills
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Group Facilitation
- Clinical Documentation
- Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration
- Substance Use & Recovery Support
- Relationship building
Certification
- 2020 Project Management Certificate at University of Washington
- 2020 Retail Management Certificate at Green River College
- 2002 Montessori Teaching Certificate (Ages 3–6) at Montessori Teacher Preparation of Washington
- QMHA
- CADC 1
Timeline
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC 1)
Virtue at the Pointe Recovery
08.2024 - Current
Veterans Service Representative (VSR)
Veterans Benefits Administration
07.2023 - 08.2024
Transportation Security Officerxz
Transportation Security Administration
05.2022 - 07.2023
Community Manager
Linked: Seattle
02.2016 - 02.2020
Director
Tree House Montessori Preschool & Childcare
06.2006 - 12.2015
Master of Science - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of The Cumberlands
Bachelor of Arts - Business
Greeen River College
Associate of Science - Business Administration
Green River College