Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Matthew Dobson

Dawson,IL

Summary

Dynamic Correctional Counselor with extensive experience at IDOC, specializing in inmate behavior modification and mental health support. Proven track record in crisis intervention and case planning, enhancing rehabilitation outcomes through tailored counseling programs. Recognized for compassionate leadership and effective group therapy facilitation, fostering a safe and supportive environment for inmates.

Experienced with developing personalized rehabilitation plans. Utilizes conflict resolution and crisis management strategies to maintain safe environment. Track record of effective communication and support in high-pressure situations.

Professional counselor with commitment to rehabilitation and inmate support. Expertise in developing individualized treatment plans and facilitating group therapy sessions. Known for teamwork and adaptability, fostering collaborative environment for positive outcomes.

Dedicated Correctional Counselor adept at conducting individual and group counseling sessions to address any mental, social, emotional, and physical problems in inmates. Passionate about acting as a role model to inmates by exhibiting professional and positive behavior.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience

Work History

Correctional Counselor

IDOC
09.2023 - Current
  • Counseled inmates either individually or group settings to bring problems to light and implement potential solutions.
  • Addressed behavior and stability of inmates to root out concerning connections or mental health issues.
  • Conducted interviews for hiring of inmate job positions to identify optimal candidates.
  • Evaluated progress of inmates in jails and prisons to determine optimal intervention strategies.
  • Provided leadership within the counseling department by mentoring new counselors and sharing expertise in specialized areas such as substance abuse treatment or trauma-informed care.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions for inmates addressing substance abuse, anger management, and life skills development.
  • Improved inmate behavior by implementing individualized counseling programs tailored to their specific needs.
  • Conducted regular case reviews for individual inmates to assess progress towards rehabilitation goals and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
  • Provided crisis intervention services as needed, deescalating potentially dangerous situations involving inmate conflicts or self-harm incidents.

Correctional Officer

IDOC
06.2009 - 09.2023
  • Managed high-risk situations with professionalism and composure, ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
  • Searched cells of inmates to identify and confiscate contraband and other prohibited items.
  • Maintained inmate safety through vigilant monitoring of behavior and swift intervention during conflicts.
  • Reduced instances of contraband by thoroughly searching inmates, cells, and common areas.
  • Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals, and medical appointments.
  • Conducted routine and emergency head counts.
  • Assisted in the training of new correctional officers, providing guidance on best practices and procedures.
  • Prevented escapes by diligently inspecting perimeters, doors, windows, gates, fences, and other access points throughout the prison complex regularly.

Shipping and Receiving Manager

Menards
08.2005 - 12.2008
  • Operated forklifts, lift trucks, and hand trucks to move items around warehouse.
  • Optimized warehouse layout for efficient product flow from receiving to shipping areas, minimizing wasted time in transit between locations.
  • Pulled, verified, and packaged items for shipment.
  • Managed inventory control with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accurate stock levels.
  • Prepared shipping documents and invoices, processed payments, and fielded client questions.
  • Conducted counts and audits of inventories to identify and resolve discrepancies in records.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Mass Communication

University of Illinois At Springfield
Springfield, IL
06-2008

Skills

  • Victim advocacy
  • Compassionate
  • Professional boundaries
  • Case planning
  • Mental health support
  • Inmate behavior modification tactics
  • Suicide prevention
  • Individual counseling
  • Anger management

Timeline

Correctional Counselor

IDOC
09.2023 - Current

Correctional Officer

IDOC
06.2009 - 09.2023

Shipping and Receiving Manager

Menards
08.2005 - 12.2008

Bachelor of Arts - Mass Communication

University of Illinois At Springfield
Matthew Dobson