Sandra Jackson
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate counseling professional with experience in addiction counseling and a strong commitment to supporting youth in their personal growth and recovery journeys. Skilled in developing and implementing individualized treatment plans, facilitating group therapy, and providing crisis intervention with a trauma-informed approach. Adept at fostering therapeutic relationships that empower clients to achieve their goals while navigating complex challenges. Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Professional Counseling (LCPC) at Montana State University Billings, with a focus on advocating for and counseling neurodivergent youth and adolescents facing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Passionate about creating inclusive, supportive environments that promote resilience, self-awareness, and long-term well-being.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Licensed Addiction Counselor
Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch
Billings, MT
06.2023 - 10.2024
- Delivered individual and group counseling services to adolescents in a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) and school-based setting.
- Developed and implemented treatment plans focusing on addiction recovery, emotional regulation, and coping strategies.
- Conducted assessments for suicidal ideation, created safety plans, and collaborated with medical staff to ensure client well-being.
- Provided psychoeducation and life skills training tailored to the unique needs of neurodivergent youth.
- Maintained accurate and confidential documentation in compliance with state and federal regulations.
- Evaluated client progress regularly, adjusting treatment plans as needed to maximize success in recovery efforts.
- Facilitated family counseling sessions, strengthening relationships between clients and their loved ones.
- Educated clients on coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques, empowering them to maintain long-term sobriety.
- Referred clients to appropriate resources within the community, enhancing their support network during the recovery process.
- Participated in case review meetings with colleagues, sharing insights and feedback to improve overall effectiveness of treatment services.
- Assisted clients with developing essential life skills for successful reintegration into society after treatment completion.
- Provided crisis intervention services, supporting clients during critical moments in their addiction journey.
- Administered and monitored urine drug screenings to support treatment plans and ensure compliance with recovery goals, maintaining strict confidentiality and adherence to ethical standards.
Youth Support Specialist
Youth Dynamics
Billings, MT
08.2021 - 05.2023
- Facilitated skill-building workshops and recreational activities to support the emotional, social, and educational development of youth.
- Advocated for at-risk youth by identifying needs, coordinating resources, and improving daily environments.
- Designed and led intervention plans to address crisis situations, promoting resilience and self-management skills.
- Mentored and guided youths through the process of developing leadership skills, fostering a sense of responsibility and accountability in their actions.
- Determined needed and relevant interventions based on each client's cognitive abilities and current needs.
Insurance Customer Service Specialist
EBMS
Billings, MT
04.2017 - 12.2019
- Answered incoming phone calls to articulate product value to prospective customers and support current policyholders.
- Managed a high volume of inbound calls, maintaining professionalism and empathy in all interactions.
- Collaborated effectively with internal departments like claims adjusters, underwriting staff, allowing seamless coordination between parties involved in the client relationship management process.
- Assisted clients with policy updates and modifications, ensuring accurate coverage.
- Streamlined claims processing for faster resolution and improved client experience.
- Developed expertise in various lines of insurance products, offering knowledgeable guidance to customers seeking information on policies.
Education
Master of Science - Counseling
Montana State University Billings Montana
Billings MT05-2026
Bachelor of Science - Human Services
Montana State University
Billings, MT05-2023
Skills
- Individual and Group Counseling
- Crisis Intervention and Management
- Treatment Planning and Implementation
- Case Management
- Psychoeducation
- Assessment and Diagnosis (DSM-5)
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Interviewing
- Relapse prevention
- Advocacy for Client Rights and Needs
- Cultural Competency and Inclusion
- Youth and Family Advocacy
- Building Therapeutic Rapport
- Navigating Community Resources
- Risk Assessment and Safety Planning
- Relapse Prevention Planning
- Behavioral Intervention and Modification
- Suicide Prevention Strategies
- Maintaining Confidential Records (HIPAA Compliance)
- Progress Monitoring and Reporting
- Time Management and Prioritization
- Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration
- Program Development and Evaluation
- Active Listening and Empathy
- Conflict Resolution and Mediation
- Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication
- Public Speaking and Group Facilitation
- Clear and Professional Documentation
- Behavioral Skills Development
- Family Systems Therapy
- Parenting Support and Education
- Life Skills Training
- Telehealth Platforms and Virtual Counseling
- Proficiency with Electronic Health Records (EHR)
- Data Collection and Analysis
- Adherence to ACA Code of Ethics
- Ethical Decision-Making
- Professional Boundaries Management
- Confidentiality and Data Security
- Self-Care and Resilience Strategies
- Adaptability to Client Needs
- Openness to Feedback and Lifelong Learning
Timeline
Licensed Addiction Counselor
Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch
06.2023 - 10.2024
Youth Support Specialist
Youth Dynamics
08.2021 - 05.2023
Insurance Customer Service Specialist
EBMS
04.2017 - 12.2019
Master of Science - Counseling
Montana State University Billings Montana
Bachelor of Science - Human Services
Montana State University