Makenzie Cook
Hernando,MS
Summary
I am currently making the profound transition from academia to a professional role. Time spent working for Community Counseling Services throughout graduate school has greatly prepared me to move forward into a successful counseling career. Proven to enhance client experiences through active and empathetic counseling at CCS, I excel in building rapport, crisis intervention, and interdisciplinary team collaboration. My adaptability and commitment to professional growth through continuous training stand out, showcasing a client-centered approach to mental health support.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Intern
Community Counseling Services
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Conducted intake assessments for new clients both at the main Columbus office and at the Crisis Stabilization Unit in West Point.
- Assisted in facilitation of individual and family therapy sessions alongside licensed professional counselors and supervisors at the Columbus office.
- Provided regular individual and group counseling sessions for clients at the Victory House psychosocial rehabilitation center throughout the entirety of the internship.
- Provided daily individual and group counseling sessions for clients experiencing crisis at the Crisis Stabilization Unit for 7 weeks. Offered crisis intervention services including addressing immediate needs, incorporating productive coping skills, and offering resources for future needs.
- Enhanced client experience by providing empathetic and attentive counseling sessions.
- Implemented creative therapeutic interventions tailored to individual client needs, promoting positive change and personal growth.
- Built rapport with diverse clientele by demonstrating cultural competence and sensitivity in all interactions.
- Maintained client confidentiality in all communications, adhering to ethical guidelines and protecting the privacy of sensitive information.
- Documented clients' progress to keep detailed notes on each client's treatment progress and changes in mental health status.
- Contributed to the improvement of clinical services by participating in supervision sessions and incorporating feedback from supervisors into practice.
- Worked collaboratively with other mental health professionals to provide consistent care and minimize diversion.
- Continuously expanded professional knowledge through participation in workshops, conferences, and ongoing training opportunities.
Server
Velvet Cream - The Dip
05.2018 - 01.2024
- Greeted customers promptly; took and made their orders quickly to keep flow of traffic moving.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient service with a friendly demeanor.
- Prepared menu items accurately and efficiently.
- Mastered various positions within the fast-food environment, including cashier, front of house staff member, fryer, and assistant shift manager.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, maintaining positive relationships with patrons.
- Assisted in training new team members on proper food handling procedures, promoting a culture of teamwork.
Intern
Mississippi State University Wesley Foundation
04.2021 - 05.2022
- Assisted in planning and implementing events to welcome incoming students, ensuring they felt accepted and supported in their college faith journey from the start.
- Assisted in planning and executing weekly worship services, including presentations of outreach updates, prayer, and scripture each week.
- Led weekly small group meetings for deeper understanding of Biblical teachings and real-life applications.
- Served as the designated community outreach intern; organized and executed monthly events and activities on campus to promote involvement in ministry programs.
- Attended special events such as retreats, conferences, and workshops for spiritual growth opportunities.
- Helped to develop new discipleship programs focused on deepening students' individual relationships with Christ.
- Assisted in recruiting and training new and potential student leaders for future ministry program success.
- Communicated regularly with senior leadership to ensure alignment of goals between ministry program and students' interests.
- Promoted diversity and inclusion within the ministry by developing initiatives tailored to address the needs of all MSU students.
Hotel Staff Member
Horseshoe Tunica Hotel & Casino
07.2020 - 07.2021
- Provided exceptional customer service to all hotel and pool guests, addressing their needs and concerns promptly.
- Resolved guest complaints using active listening skills and empathy to ensure their satisfaction.
- Implemented the maintenance of clean facilities, ensuring a healthy environment for patrons.
- Managed inventory of pool equipment and supplies, maintaining adequate stock levels at all times.
- Conducted regular inspections of hotel facilities to identify areas in need of maintenance or improvement.
Education
Master of Science - Counselor Education - CMH Counseling
Mississippi State University
Starkville, MS08.2024
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Mississippi State University
Starkville, MS05.2022
Skills
- Building Rapport
- Active Listening
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Self-Esteem Building
- Person-Centered Approaches
- Crisis Intervention
- Group Therapy Facilitation
- Multicultural Competence
- Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration
- Case Documentation
References
References are available upon request.
Timeline
Intern
Community Counseling Services
08.2023 - 05.2024
Intern
Mississippi State University Wesley Foundation
04.2021 - 05.2022
Hotel Staff Member
Horseshoe Tunica Hotel & Casino
07.2020 - 07.2021
Server
Velvet Cream - The Dip
05.2018 - 01.2024
Master of Science - Counselor Education - CMH Counseling
Mississippi State University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Mississippi State University