Melinda Cook
Columbia,SC
Summary
Compassionate professional with 10 years of experience in behavioral health services. Expertise in behavioral assessments, documentation compliance, and resource coordination. Proven track record in enhancing client engagement and achieving successful outcomes through effective crisis intervention and support.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Counselor
South Carolina Youth Challenge Academy
Eastover, South Carolina
01.2021 - Current
- Led and supervised counseling staff in delivering structured behavioral health services to at-risk youth.
- Conducted needs assessments on cadets to determine appropriate behavioral health services.
- Maintained detailed case management documentation, monitoring behavioral and developmental progress.
- Compiled and analyzed data for federal and state reports, producing management summaries to inform stakeholders.
- Monitored and evaluated staff performance to ensure alignment with National Guard Bureau standards and achievement of program goals.
Counselor
South Carolina Youth Challenge Academy
Eastover, South Carolina
10.2018 - 01.2021
- Advocated for clients, ensuring timely access to essential services.
- Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to enhance client engagement and promote behavior change.
- Maintained comprehensive case documentation and tracked behavioral and developmental progress.
- Assisted clients in navigating community resources to enhance transitional support.
- Provided education and direct counseling to develop effective coping mechanisms.
Social Worker
Agape Hospice
Columbia, SC
09.2015 - 09.2018
- Provided emotional support to clients and families during end-of-life care, fostering comfort and understanding during challenging times.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic client care.
- Advocated for clients' rights and preferences within care settings.
- Conducted crisis intervention to address and resolve immediate family concerns, ensuring safety and stability for clients.
- Coordinated referrals to external agencies, connecting clients with additional services to meet their holistic needs.
Social Work Intern
Palmetto Health - Behavioral Care
Columbia, SC
05.2013 - 05.2015
- Co-facilitated group therapy sessions for adolescents with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, promoting recovery and resilience.
- Conducted psychosocial assessments and collaborated on discharge planning to support effective treatment transitions.
- Guided clients in behavior modification techniques to foster positive conduct and enhance coping strategies.
- Documented client social history and treatment progress to ensure continuity of care.
Education
Master of Social Work -
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC05-2015
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management
Coastal Carolina University
Conway, SC08-1991
Skills
- Case Management & Care Coordination
- Crisis intervention
- Trauma-informed care
- Substance Use & Co-Occurring Disorders
- Behavioral assessments
- Client advocacy & Resource coordination
- Transitional Support
- Federal & State Reporting Standards
Certification
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), License #11525
Accomplishments
Co-founder of Coalition of Diverse Social Workers - Student Organization (2013)
Timeline
Lead Counselor
South Carolina Youth Challenge Academy
01.2021 - Current
Counselor
South Carolina Youth Challenge Academy
10.2018 - 01.2021
Social Worker
Agape Hospice
09.2015 - 09.2018
Social Work Intern
Palmetto Health - Behavioral Care
05.2013 - 05.2015
Master of Social Work -
University of South Carolina
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management
Coastal Carolina University