Marissa Helfers
Geneva,IL
Summary
Experienced school social worker skilled in risk assessments, family collaboration, and fostering supportive learning environments. Successfully led school-wide SEL initiatives, enhancing student engagement and emotional well-being through targeted group services and teacher support. Cultivated meaningful therapeutic relationships with students, enhancing social-emotional development.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
Work History
School Social Worker: Country Trails Elementary
Central Community Unit School District 301
Elgin, Illinois
08.2019 - Current
- Delivered small group social work services to students with and without IEPs.
- Conducted assessments to identify social and emotional needs of students.
- Collaborated with teachers to foster supportive learning environments.
- Led school SEL committee to enhance social-emotional learning initiatives.
- Advised teachers on strategies for managing challenging student behaviors.
- Provided resources to families, including food banks and housing programs.
- Trained and mentored new social workers to ensure effective service delivery.
- Created positive school climate by supporting staff and promoting respectful behavior.
- Experience supporting high-needs students in self-contained preschool program
Tanning Consultant
L.a. Tan
Geneva, IL
10.2014 - 08.2019
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of tanning equipment and salon areas.
- Educated clients on safe tanning practices and skin care routines.
- Provided exceptional customer service to enhance client satisfaction.
- Assisted in inventory management of tanning products and supplies.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally in accordance with company policy.
School Social Work Intern: Long Beach Elementary
Oswego School District 308
Boulder Hill, IL
08.2018 - 06.2019
- Engaged in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss student progress and challenges.
- Assessed and evaluated student social, emotional, and behavioral needs.
- Participated in research projects related to best practices for social work in schools.
- Facilitated small group counseling sessions focused on topics such as anger management, peer relationships, self-esteem building.
Case Manager
Stepping Stones Treatment Center
Joliet, Illinois
08.2016 - 10.2017
- Monitored client progress and adjusted interventions as necessary.
- Conducted regular case reviews to ensure compliance with treatment goals.
- Educated clients on available resources and coping strategies.
- Maintained detailed case documentation in electronic health records system.
- Counseled clients on available resources within the community that could help meet their needs.
- Participated in regular team meetings and in-house training sessions to boost group effectiveness.
Education
Master of Social Work - School Specialization
Aurora University
Aurora, Illinois, IL06-2019
Bachelor of Social Work - Addictions Specialization
Aurora University
Aurora, Illinois, IL06-2018
Associate of Arts -
Waubonsee Community College
Sugar Grove, IL05-2016
High School Diploma -
Batavia High School
Batavia, IL01-2013
Skills
- Student advocacy
- Behavior management
- Effective communication
- Data collection and management
- Multidisciplinary team collaboration
- Risk assessments
- Family collaboration
- Strong therapeutic rapport building
Certification
PEL: School Social Work Endorsement
Affiliations
Volunteer: Mutual Ground, Aurora IL (2012-Present)
Timeline
School Social Worker: Country Trails Elementary
Central Community Unit School District 301
08.2019 - Current
School Social Work Intern: Long Beach Elementary
Oswego School District 308
08.2018 - 06.2019
Case Manager
Stepping Stones Treatment Center
08.2016 - 10.2017
Tanning Consultant
L.a. Tan
10.2014 - 08.2019
Master of Social Work - School Specialization
Aurora University
Bachelor of Social Work - Addictions Specialization
Aurora University
Associate of Arts -
Waubonsee Community College
High School Diploma -
Batavia High School