Runa M Pitoitua
Graham,WA
Summary
Compassionate mental health therapist skilled in providing effective and empathetic support. Have successfully developed and implemented individualized care plans that significantly improved clients' quality of life. Possess strong communication, crisis management, and therapeutic relationship-building skills. Demonstrated impact by fostering positive outcomes in challenging environments through innovative treatment strategies and patient advocacy.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Mental Health Therapist- Associate
Seattle Childrens Hopsital
Seattle, WA
06.2023 - Current
- Provided individual, family, and group therapy for clients with a range of mental health diagnoses among adolescents (depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, etc.).
- Implemented evidence-based treatment for patients with a high acuity of suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
- Assisted clients in developing healthy coping skills, setting goals and improving communication.
- Developed individualized treatment plans based on the client's needs and goals.
- Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings with psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and case managers to discuss complex cases and develop integrated care plans.
- Educated and collaborated with family members on how to support the client through their recovery process.
- Monitored patient safety during appointments by assessing any potential risks associated with the environment or activities being pursued by the client.
- Responded to crisis situations when severe mental health and behavioral issues arose.
Clinician III (WISe & Crisis Clinician)
Catholic Community Services
Tacoma, WA
12.2021 - 05.2023
- Conducted crisis assessment interviews with clients in order to determine the need for emergency services or further counseling.
- Developed safety plans with the collaboration of patient and family to ensure that patient is able to return to a safe environment if no higher-level of care is needed.
- Collaborated with other mental health professionals to develop treatment plans that meet client's needs.
- Provided education on various topics related to mental health including coping strategies and stress management techniques.
- Facilitated individual and family therapy sessions to address mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.
- Monitored client progress by conducting follow-up assessments and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.
- Responded to crises situations by providing emotional support, safety planning and de-escalation techniques.
Education
Master of Arts - Social Work
New York University - Silver School of Social Work
New York, NY05-2021
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology & American Ethnic Studies
University of Washington
Seattle, WA06-2019
Associate of Arts - Anthropology
Pierce College
Steilacoom, WA06-2017
Skills
- DBT Informed
- Safety and risk assessments
- Individual, family, and group therapy
- Treatment planning and implementation
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Adaptability
- Patient Advocacy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Team building
- Crisis Management
Certification
- Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC)
Languages
Samoan
Native/ Bilingual
English
Native/ Bilingual
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Mental Health Therapist- Associate
Seattle Childrens Hopsital
06.2023 - Current
Clinician III (WISe & Crisis Clinician)
Catholic Community Services
12.2021 - 05.2023
Master of Arts - Social Work
New York University - Silver School of Social Work
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology & American Ethnic Studies
University of Washington
Associate of Arts - Anthropology
Pierce College
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