Laura Long
Eureka,CA
Summary
Driven by a passion for social rehabilitation, leveraged psychosocial assessments and problem-solving skills at Club Stairways Social Rehabilitation Center to enhance client recovery and engagement. Adaptability facilitated the development and management of impactful programs, achieving significant advancements in community integration and support.
Comprehensive knowledge of social justice issues and systems affecting marginalized communities. Collaborative and analytical advocate builds strategic partnerships, advocate for clients, and advance change for communities in need.
Personal experienced and knowledge of palliative care with a deep understanding for individual and family psychosocial needs with respect for terminal illness.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Social Worker
Club Stairways Social Rehabilitation Center
09.2009 - 11.2016
- Completed initial intake and made determination of suitability for membership using informal assessment tool of client's ongoing supported needs in the community for essential services such as housing, mental and healthcare, financial and legal aid.
- Increased client engagement in recovery by building trusting relationships through empathetic listening and consistent support using Recovery Model based emphasizing client's sense of self and autonomy for social rehabilitation.
- Advocated for clients'' rights, navigating complex systems to secure necessary resources and benefits.
- Served as liaison between clients experiencing homelessness and various social service agencies, advocating on behalf of each individual's specific needs and rights.
- Coordinated follow-up case management for supportive services in community with collaborating agencies.
- Collaborated with The Department of Rehabilitation, Behavioral Health and housing agencies to implement effective plans to support client's recovery.
Homeless Outreach Cold/Wet Sheltering
Volunteer Work
01.2016 - 02.2016
- Collaborated with law enforcement officers when necessary, fostering positive relationships between police departments and the homeless population served.
- Participated in staff meetings and trainings to continuously improve professional skills and stay current on best practices in the field of street outreach work.
- Connected clients to mental health and substance abuse treatment services, facilitating their path towards recovery.
- Coordinated transportation arrangements for clients needing assistance accessing medical appointments or other essential services within the community.
- Enhanced community relationships by conducting regular outreach, engaging with individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Promoted community awareness of homelessness issues through presentations at public gatherings.
- Utilized strong problem-solving abilities to identify challenges faced by unhoused individuals and develop innovative solutions tailored to their unique circumstances.
- Improved access to resources through consistent coordination and collaboration with local service providers.
- Provided crisis intervention services when needed, effectively deescalating tense situations and ensuring client safety.
- Implemented harm reduction strategies when working with clients engaged in high-risk behaviors, prioritizing safety without judgment or stigma attached.
- Provided emotional support and encouragement for clients facing personal challenges, demonstrating empathy and understanding throughout the process.
- Assisted in conducting needs assessments to identify key areas of service needs.
- Participated in community outreach events to raise awareness about marine mammal conservation issues and inspire local action.
- Collaborated with various stakeholders to promote social services.
Director of Housing
Stairways Recovery
09.2009 - 06.2010
- Assisted in evaluating program effectiveness through data collection and analysis, contributing valuable insights for potential improvements.
- Oversaw financial operations, ensuring budget compliance and optimizing resource allocation.
- Supervised MSW and BS under graduates in various departments with their internship training.
- Evaluated staff and intern performances regularly to promote knowledge of Mental Health Recovery Model.
- Developed and implemented individualized care plans for each resident's goals for community integration.
- Collaborated with families, mental health personnel, hospitals and other community partners to ensure client needs were met.
- Facilitated successful discharge of unhoused individuals from hospital into temporary shelter working with visiting nurses and social workers making sure consumer had all discharge plan needs met.
- Collaborated with Department of Rehabilitation and community businesses in sheltered work program for residences readiness to work evaluating competency to work independently.
- Participated in community NAMI events to promote services and engage with public.
- Developed program for newly released paroles job training assisting residents with independent living skills such as cleaning, cooking and effective budgeting.
- Developed resident retention strategies that fostered a sense of community and loyalty among tenants.
- Established partnerships with local organizations to provide additional support services for residents.
- Improved communication between staff and residents through regular meetings and transparent reporting practices.
Clinical Mental Health Counselor Intern
Butte County Behavioral Health
09.2008 - 06.2009
- Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans and connected clients and families to appropriate resources.
- Developed rapport with diverse clientele by demonstrating empathy, active listening, and cultural sensitivity throughout counseling process.
- Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the field of clinical mental health counseling.
- Improved client outcomes by utilizing evidence-based counseling techniques and individualized treatment plans.
- Encouraged self-reflection among clients by utilizing various therapeutic techniques such as journaling exercises or creative arts activities.
- Maintained detailed case notes, documenting all aspects of the counseling process for accurate record-keeping and continuity of care.
Social Worker Intern/Volunteer
St Vincent De Paul Society Dining Room
09.2006 - 03.2007
- Advocated on behalf of clients'' rights within Federal SSI and SSA programs facilitating communication between parties involved in application and qualifying process.
- Provided crisis intervention services to individuals experiencing acute distress, utilizing effective de-escalation techniques and safety planning strategies.
- Assisted clients in identifying community resources and connecting with appropriate services to meet family or individual needs for assistance.
- Consulted with professors in understanding diversity of needs in homeless population.
- Assisted clients in developing and setting realistic goals to promote positive change.
Social Care Volunteer
Aldersly Nursing Home
09.2004 - 08.2005
- Actively participated in staff meetings, contributing ideas for volunteer opportunities.
- Intervened in crisis situations to obtain support for residents to reduce escalation of behaviors.
- Responded appropriately and effectively to family questions and concerns for end of life patient care.
- Intervened at various stages to help residents with physical and cognitive impairments organizing their living environments.
- Guided stretching or chair yoga sessions.
- Implemented arts and crafts class.
- Assistance in basic eating, mobility and safety concerns.
- Provide compassionate company for residents.
Education
Master of Arts - Social Welfare
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA06.2008
Skills
- Psychosocial Assessments
- Treatment Planning
- Counseling
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Written and verbal communication
- Community Referrals
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Trauma-informed care
- Policy and procedure adherence
- Program Development and Management
Timeline
Homeless Outreach Cold/Wet Sheltering
Volunteer Work
01.2016 - 02.2016
Social Worker
Club Stairways Social Rehabilitation Center
09.2009 - 11.2016
Director of Housing
Stairways Recovery
09.2009 - 06.2010
Clinical Mental Health Counselor Intern
Butte County Behavioral Health
09.2008 - 06.2009
Social Worker Intern/Volunteer
St Vincent De Paul Society Dining Room
09.2006 - 03.2007
Social Care Volunteer
Aldersly Nursing Home
09.2004 - 08.2005
Master of Arts - Social Welfare
University of California, Berkeley