Melissa Thomas
O'Fallon,MO
Summary
Accomplished Substance Abuse Counselor with a proven track record at BHG and Gateway Foundation, adept in Clinical Documentation and fostering Multicultural Competence. Excelled in enhancing client recovery rates through innovative counseling and case management strategies. Skilled in creating impactful treatment plans and meeting program goals. I'm hardworking and passionate about helping individuals who struggle with addiction. I'm motivated and eager to secure the Substance Abuse Counselor position. I would love to be a part of a team who wants to achieve company goals.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Substance Abuse Counselor
Gateway Foundation
10.2023 - 07.2024
- Developed individual treatment goals based on history and diagnosis.
- Supported and assessed clients struggling with addiction or relationship issues and devised strategies based on client needs.
- Developed goal-oriented psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to improve clients' level of functioning.
- Provided counseling and support to clients with drug and alcohol abuse issues.
- Kept accurate and detailed records to track and document client progress.
Program Director
BHG (Behavioral Health Group)
09.2016 - 10.2023
- Maintained and updated project related documents.
- Provided ongoing direction and leadership for program operations.
- Collaborated with various teams to uncover issues, identify applicable solutions, and offer guidance.
- Scheduled and supervised staff meetings to discuss new ideas and update participants on program details and milestones.
- Recruited and trained staff and volunteers to upgrade collective team skills.
- Supervised program staff, managing and evaluating performance provide high-quality services to program participants.
- Developed and implemented program goals and objectives, establishing specific and measurable outcomes aligned with organization's overall mission.
- Developed and implemented marketing strategies to promote program awareness and participation.
- Monitored program performance to identify areas for improvement.
- Monitored programming trends to keep content relevant and up-to-date.
- Oversaw staff schedules and assignments to handle programming demands.
- Monitored programming schedules, conformance to guidelines and quality.
- Developed proposals and operational plans within assigned area.
Counselor
Valley Hope
06.2014 - 09.2016
- Offered guidance and advice to help cultivate self-esteem and community involvement.
- Engaged clients in conversation to determine feelings and apprehensions.
- Arranged and facilitated therapy sessions for individuals, couples, and families.
- Guided clients in developing skills and strategies for dealing with problems.
- Developed individualized counseling plans for clients to incorporate short-term and long-term goals.
- Acted as client advocate to coordinate required services or resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.
- Conducted assessments to determine progress and performance and report findings to relevant authorities.
- Facilitated group counseling sessions to support and encourage client growth.
- Collaborated with other professionals to coordinate comprehensive care for clients.
- Provided emergency response in crisis situations to diffuse tensions and prevent violence.
- Supervised meetings with family members to help create support system for clients.
- Provided education on mental health topics and resources to clients.
- Educated clients on dangers of substance abuse and prevention techniques.
- Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans, and connected clients and families to appropriate resources.
Community Support Specialist
Burrell Behavioral Health
06.2012 - 06.2015
- Supported clients in developing goals and social skills, improving individual wellness and productivity.
- Liaised with community members, recommending resources and programs.
- Assisted in implementation of community support services in alignment with needs.
- Established networks to increase community awareness of new programs.
- Enlisted support of volunteers and collaborated with businesses and community groups.
- Provided emotional support to affected residents and victims and assisted in developing long-term recovery plans and goals.
- Supported clients through development of new life skills, obtaining resources and transitioning back to society.
- Assisted clients with obtaining housing, employment and support resources.
- Kept case files updated, accurate and aligned with requirements.
- Tracked service activities and outcomes against outlined plans and goals.
- Led group discussions and activities to meet different community needs.
- Intervened in crisis situations to obtain support for clients and reduce escalation or recurrence risks.
- Helped clients navigate social services system and access needed resources.
- Coordinated with different service providers to meet clients' individual needs.
Education
M. Ed in Counseling
Stephens College
Columbia, MO05.2017
Associate of Arts - Alcohol And Drug Counseling
Missouri Valley College
Marshall, MO05.2014
Skills
- Medication-Assisted Treatment
- Clinical Documentation
- Addiction Assessment
- Client Confidentiality
- Substance Use Screening
- Relapse Prevention
- Case Management
- Multicultural Competence
- Individual Counseling
- Referral Coordination
References
Laura Cameron (573) 999-4754
Cammy Testerman ( 816) 803-0620
Jesse Murdock (573) 356-5458
Timeline
Substance Abuse Counselor
Gateway Foundation
10.2023 - 07.2024
Program Director
BHG (Behavioral Health Group)
09.2016 - 10.2023
Counselor
Valley Hope
06.2014 - 09.2016
Community Support Specialist
Burrell Behavioral Health
06.2012 - 06.2015
M. Ed in Counseling
Stephens College
Associate of Arts - Alcohol And Drug Counseling
Missouri Valley College