Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Sara Vandergaag

Vacaville,CA

Summary

Dynamic AOD Counselor at Center Point able to successfully foster trust and open communication, leading to improved client outcomes. I empower individuals to achieve long-term sobriety through tailored coping strategies and emotional support.

Caring, empathetic counselor . Exceptionally talented at building rapport with different patient groups to encourage honesty and growth in recovery from substance abuse.

Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.

Overview

3
3
years of professional experience

Work History

AOD Counselor

Center Point
03.2025 - Current
  • Established rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of substance abuse severity, fostering trust and open communication essential for successful outcomes.
  • Conducted group therapy sessions for clients, fostering a supportive environment conducive to recovery.
  • Educated clients on coping skills and strategies that promote long-term sobriety and success in recovery.
  • Assisted clients in identifying and addressing factors contributing to substance abuse, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.
  • Contributed to a positive treatment culture by modeling and promoting healthy boundaries, communication practices, and self-care strategies among staff members.

Patient Care Taker

IHSS Adult Services Program
10.2022 - Current
  • Assisted in the coordination of patient care by scheduling appointments, managing transportation, and ensuring timely follow-up visits.
  • Provided emotional support to client and their families during difficult times, fostering strong relationships built on trust and empathy.
  • Promoted optimal nutrition by preparing meals according to individual dietary requirements and preferences. along with administering shots and daily medications
  • Assisted patients with daily living activities for improved quality of life and increased independence.
  • Maintained a clean, safe, and comfortable environment for patients, contributing to their overall wellbeing.
  • Increased patient adherence to prescribed treatments by educating them about their conditions and the importance of following medical advice.
  • Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans tailored to each patient''s unique needs.
  • Replaced bandages, dressings, and binders to care for wounds and encourage healing.
  • Handled incoming mail, bills and invoices and completed appropriate actions.
  • Maintained entire family's schedule and organized events.

After School Program Director/Mentor

Leaven Kids
06.2022 - 08.2024
  • Increased program attendance by establishing partnerships with local organizations and community leaders..
  • Managed behavioral issues and used positive behavior strategies for groups of up to 18 students.
  • Scheduled mini-lessons, art projects, and unstructured playtime for school-age children.
  • Communicated with parents to encourage active parental participation in education.
  • Served as a role model for professionalism, integrity, and dedication.
  • Provided guidance and recommended coping mechanisms for youth dealing with difficult issues.
  • Assisted youth with homework assignments, sports, and fitness, art and literacy.
  • Established an inclusive environment where all students felt welcome and valued, fostering a sense of belonging among participants.

Education

Associate of Science - AOD Counseling

Intercoast College
Fairfield, CA
03-2025

High School Diploma -

Elese P Buckingham
Vacaville, CA
06-1997

Skills

  • Addiction recovery
  • Empathy development
  • Self-care techniques
  • Relapse prevention
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Life skills training
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Boundary setting
  • Substance abuse education
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Excellent communication
  • Organizational skills
  • Active listening
  • Certified in CPR/AED
  • Professionalism
  • Time management abilities
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Group therapy
  • Trauma-informed care

Timeline

AOD Counselor

Center Point
03.2025 - Current

Patient Care Taker

IHSS Adult Services Program
10.2022 - Current

After School Program Director/Mentor

Leaven Kids
06.2022 - 08.2024

Associate of Science - AOD Counseling

Intercoast College

High School Diploma -

Elese P Buckingham

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