Melissa Ann Barrett
North Kingstown
Summary
Compassionate Licensed Chemical Dependency Professional with 5 years of clinical experience in mental health and substance use. Expertise in case management, trauma-informed counseling, and group facilitation, with a strong focus on promoting long-term recovery and advocating for housing and community resources for women and families.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Substance Use Counselor
Newport County Community Mental Health
Middletown
10.2024 - Current
- Delivered individualized substance use counseling, case management, and recovery support services to empower clients in their recovery journey.
- Advocated for clients within healthcare, behavioral health, and social service systems to ensure comprehensive support and resource access.
- Coordinated Rep Payee services, MOT program support, and SDOH interventions to enhance client stability and access to resources.
Group Facilitator
Zinnia Exeter
Exeter
03.2022 - 10.2024
- Facilitated therapeutic groups focused on relapse prevention, coping strategies, and recovery planning to enhance client resilience.
- Facilitated group discussions to encourage open communication and collaboration.
- Managed group dynamics to ensure a positive and inclusive environment.
- Developed engaging activities to enhance participant engagement and interaction.
- Coordinated with clinical teams to align client goals and ensure accurate documentation of progress.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Vivian Ball
Exeter
03.2023 - 03.2024
- Assisted residents with daily living activities, ensuring comfort and safety while monitoring health status for timely interventions.
- Delivered compassionate care while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to enhance resident well-being and support care plans.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Raymond L. Blais
Warwick
07.2017 - 03.2024
- Assisted residents with daily living activities, enhancing comfort and monitoring health status for timely interventions.
- Delivered compassionate care while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive resident support.
Receptionist / Intake Coordinator
Phoenix House
Exeter
10.2021 - 03.2022
- Coordinated intake processes and client communications, ensuring confidentiality and fostering trust with clients.
- Welcomed clients and visitors upon their arrival at the facility.
- Managed incoming phone calls and directed inquiries to appropriate staff.
- Scheduled appointments for clients, ensuring efficient use of resources.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Sammartino Home
Providence
01.2013 - 01.2017
- Assisted residents with daily living activities, enhancing comfort and promoting well-being.
- Delivered compassionate care while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to support holistic health outcomes.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Program - In Progress
College Unbound
Providence, RI03-2026
GED -
Rhode Island Department of Education
Newport07-1991
Skills
- Substance Use Counseling
- Motivational Interviewing
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Recovery Planning
- Case Management
- Group Facilitation
- Direct Patient Care
- Mental health experience
- SDOH Navigation
- MOT Program Support
- Foster care support
- Youth coaching
- Community advocacy
- Volunteer Leadership
- Representative Payee Services
Certification
- LCDP, Rhode Island, CDP01059
- CNA, Rhode Island, NA 50365
- Certified Community Health Worker, Rhode Island, 201520, 12/01/27
- Notary Public, Rhode Island, 769489, 10/01/26
Personal Information
Title: LCDP
Advocacy And Leadership
- Founder: Advocating for More Sober Homes for Women & Children Together in Rhode Island
- Foster/Adoptive Parent - Devereaux Therapeutic Foster Care & RI DCYF (2018-2022)
- Youth Coach & Mentor - Cheerleading (2010-2016), Daisy Girl Scouts (2002-2004)
- CCD Teacher - St. Mark's Parish (2004-2007)
- Fundraiser - Wickford & Davisville Middle School Wrestling Teams
- Lived Experience Advocate: 54 years of personal experience navigating mental health and substance use challenges
Timeline
Substance Use Counselor
Newport County Community Mental Health
10.2024 - Current
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Vivian Ball
03.2023 - 03.2024
Group Facilitator
Zinnia Exeter
03.2022 - 10.2024
Receptionist / Intake Coordinator
Phoenix House
10.2021 - 03.2022
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Raymond L. Blais
07.2017 - 03.2024
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Sammartino Home
01.2013 - 01.2017
Bachelor's Degree - Program - In Progress
College Unbound
GED -
Rhode Island Department of Education