Margaret Mary Dunsford
Liverpool,US
Summary
I’m a graduate student in Social Work at Syracuse University with a psychology degree from Binghamton University. I have three years of experience in child welfare and have volunteered with Crisis Text Line for several years. Currently, as a 988 Text/Chat Specialist, I provide crisis intervention and support. I’m passionate about mental health, particularly crisis intervention, and plan to specialize in working with individuals with eating disorders.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
988 Text/Chat Specialist
Contact Community Services
02.2025 - Current
- Provided compassionate and non-judgmental crisis intervention via chat and text for individuals experiencing suicidal or mental health crises, ensuring safety and emotional support in high-pressure situations.
- Performed suicide screenings and safety assessments, adhering to 988 Lifeline Suicide Safety Policies to ensure proper crisis management and referral to community resources.
- Collaborated with emergency services and community resources, effectively coordinating emergency assistance when necessary, ensuring immediate safety and well-being for individuals in crisis.
- Exercised critical thinking and sound decision-making under pressure, while managing multiple tasks such as chatting/texting, documenting, and collaborating with team members.
Caseworker
Tioga County Department Of Social Services
10.2020 - 09.2023
- Assessed needs of each client and recommended appropriate services and resources.
- Maintained high level of client confidentiality, following strict guidelines, and recommendations.
- Responded to claims of abuse, neglect or safety concerns made to the Statewide Central Register
- Visited homes, inspected surroundings and interviewed family members.
Education
Master Of Social Work - Advanced Clinical Practice
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY2027
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Binghamton University, State University of New York
Vestal, NY05.2020
Associate of Arts - Humanities & Social Science
Onondaga Community College, State University of New York
Syracuse, NY05.2017
Skills
- Child Protection
- Caseload Management
- Crisis Intervention
- Safety and Risk Assessments
- Home Visits
- Confidential Case Documentation
- Trained Forensic Interviewer
- Safety planning
Volunteer Work
Crisis Counselor- Crisis Text Line
- Completed extensive training in active listening, mental health crisis intervention, and confidentiality protocols to ensure effective and compassionate support.
- Provided real-time crisis support to individuals in distress via text, demonstrating empathy, active listening, and de-escalation techniques.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving abilities by assessing client needs and providing tailored responses to de-escalate emotional crises.
- Helped 750 + texters so far across 400 + volunteer hours
Timeline
988 Text/Chat Specialist
Contact Community Services
02.2025 - Current
Caseworker
Tioga County Department Of Social Services
10.2020 - 09.2023
Master Of Social Work - Advanced Clinical Practice
Syracuse University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Binghamton University, State University of New York
Associate of Arts - Humanities & Social Science
Onondaga Community College, State University of New York
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