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
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
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
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
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