Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

Melissa Garr

Barre,VT

Summary

Dynamic Substance Abuse Counselor with proven success at Valley Vista, enhancing client recovery through individualized treatment plans and motivational interviewing. Skilled in clinical documentation and relapse prevention, I foster strong relationships and promote harm reduction strategies, significantly improving client engagement and outcomes in diverse populations. Certified in CPR/AED.

Experienced with counseling individuals struggling with substance abuse to foster recovery and resilience. Utilizes evidence-based techniques to create personalized treatment plans. Strong understanding of addiction psychology and proven ability to manage crises effectively.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Substance Abuse Counselor

Valley Vista
08.2018 - Current
  • Maintained accurate documentation of client progress, contributing to continuous improvement in service delivery and outcomes measurement.
  • Improved client engagement by utilizing motivational interviewing techniques during counseling sessions.
  • Developed cultural competence by working with diverse populations, enabling more effective communication and understanding of unique challenges faced by various individuals.
  • Implemented crisis intervention procedures when necessary, ensuring prompt resolution of urgent situations affecting clients'' safety or wellbeing.
  • Promoted harm reduction strategies through education on safe drug use practices and overdose prevention techniques.
  • Conducted thorough assessments to accurately identify clients'' substance abuse issues and determine appropriate levels of care.
  • Educated family members about addiction and recovery processes, enhancing their ability to provide effective support for their loved ones.
  • Delivered psychoeducational presentations on substance abuse topics at schools and community events, raising awareness about the dangers of addiction and available resources for help-seeking individuals.
  • Assisted clients in navigating the complex process of accessing community resources, resulting in improved overall wellbeing.
  • Coordinated closely with probation officers and court systems, facilitating productive collaboration between treatment providers and legal authorities for optimal client outcomes.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions, fostering open communication and mutual support among participants.
  • Enhanced client recovery by developing comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
  • Reduced relapse rates through consistent follow-up appointments and support services.
  • Mentored new substance abuse counselors, sharing valuable insights and experiences to enhance their professional development and effectiveness in the field.
  • Facilitated group and individual therapy in outpatient setting.
  • Kept accurate and detailed records to track and document client progress.
  • Coordinated care with other professionals to provide clients with comprehensive support.
  • Taught substance abuse classes to help clients understand consequences of drug and alcohol use.
  • Supported and assessed clients struggling with addiction or relationship issues and devised strategies based on client needs.
  • Developed individual treatment goals based on history and diagnosis.
  • Developed goal-oriented psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to improve clients' level of functioning.
  • Displayed sensitivity to cultural and linguistic needs of clients and families served.

Personal Care Assistant

Pride
08.2018 - Current
  • Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
  • Engaged patients in meaningful conversation, socialization, and activity while providing personal care assistance.
  • Improved client comfort by providing exceptional personal care and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
  • Cleaned house, ran errands, managed laundry, and completed weekly grocery shopping.
  • Promoted independence with structured routines and clear communication to support clients in their daily lives.
  • Ensured timely medication administration, managing accurate records of dosages and schedules for multiple clients.
  • Recognized and reported abnormalities or changes in patients' health status to case manager.
  • Recorded temperature, blood pressure, pulse, or respiration rate as directed by medical or nursing staff.
  • Adapted quickly to new client situations, building rapport through active listening skills and an empathetic approach towards individual needs.
  • Contributed to a positive home atmosphere by engaging clients in conversation and recreational activities tailored to their interests.
  • Planned activities to encourage movement, stretching, and strength building.
  • Managed household chores efficiently, enabling clients to enjoy a clean living space without added stress or physical strain.
  • Assisted patients with self-administered medications.
  • Supported clients'' mental health by actively listening to concerns and offering compassionate companionship during challenging times.
  • Built strong relationships with clients to deliver emotional support and companionship.
  • Maintained detailed documentation of client progress, sharing updates with family members and healthcare providers as necessary.
  • Provided respite care for families, allowing them the opportunity to recharge while ensuring their loved one received consistent quality care.
  • Monitored and assisted residents through individual service plans.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Johnson State College, Johnson, VT
06-2009

Skills

  • Individual therapy
  • Relapse prevention
  • Clinical documentation
  • Clinical assessment
  • Client confidentiality
  • Individual counseling
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Anger management
  • Behavior modification
  • Goal setting
  • Boundary setting
  • Self-care promotion
  • Medication-assisted treatment
  • Continuing care planning
  • Dual diagnosis treatment
  • Addiction assessment
  • Substance abuse education
  • Harm reduction strategies
  • 12-step programs
  • Recovery support
  • Client evaluation
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Multitasking
  • Excellent communication
  • Organizational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Self motivation
  • Active listening
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Relationship building
  • Certified in CPR/AED

Timeline

Substance Abuse Counselor - Valley Vista
08.2018 - Current
Personal Care Assistant - Pride
08.2018 - Current
Johnson State College - Bachelor of Science, Psychology

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Melissa Garr