Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Experience
Languages
Interests
Timeline
Generic

Sharon Downs

Lewes,DE

Summary

Experienced working with individuals with mental, cognitive, and physical disabilities both within a hospital setting and in the community. Having a rich background in creating engaging and therapeutic activities that improve participant's well-being and mental health.

Dedicated with compassion and respect to others, helping to improve quality of life and optimum function.

Pursuing a part-time role that presents professional challenges and leverages interpersonal skills equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a positive attitude.

Overview

31
31
years of professional experience

Work History

Tai Chi Instructor

Cape Henlopen Senior Center
05.2020 - Current
  • Instructed participants on proper Tai Chi techniques, resulting in improved balance, flexibility, and overall mental, physical, emotional wellness.

Activity Therapist

Dover Behavioral Health System
06.2008 - 11.2024
  • Empowered patients by teaching them coping strategies and self-regulation techniques for managing stressors in daily life effectively.
  • Participated in case conferences with other healthcare professionals to discuss patient progress and collaborate on treatment plans moving forward.
  • Documented activity assessments, treatment goals, interventions and outcomes to supplement and reinforce patient medical record.
  • Maintained thorough documentation of each session''s progress notes, ensuring accurate record-keeping for continuity of care.
  • Assisted patients in setting realistic goals for their recovery process, fostering motivation and personal accountability.
  • Improved patient engagement by designing various activities that catered to physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
  • Contributed to a positive therapeutic environment by maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming workspace for patients.
  • Managed safety of activity therapy work areas, maintaining quantity and variety of supplies.
  • Promoted a stimulating environment through the incorporation of diverse activities such as arts and crafts, music therapy, pet therapy, and exercise programs.
  • Facilitated group activities that promoted social interaction, teamwork, and relationship-building among patients.
  • Recognized as a dedicated Activity Therapist by consistently receiving positive feedback from patients and colleagues regarding my professionalism, expertise and compassionate approach.
  • Created a safe space for patients to express their emotions and work through personal challenges, fostering emotional growth and self awareness.
  • Developed strong rapport with patients through active listening and genuine interest in their progress and recovery journey.

Stress Management Facilitator

Lifeworks Services, Self Employed
03.1994 - 04.2008
  • Facilitated client's process on such topics as stress management and coping skills development for improved mental well-being.
  • Promoted healthy lifestyle choices using stress management techniques and mindfulness practices.
  • Assisted clients in developing coping skills and stress management techniques, improving their overall emotional resilience.
  • Assist clients to identify stressors and how these can be connected to old belief systems.
  • Facilitate client's progress towards adapting to new ways to view current and previous situations.
  • Promoted overall wellness by incorporating holistic healing methods such as mindfulness practices and stress reduction techniques.
  • Utilized cutting-edge methods such as Emotional Freedom Technique to accelerate the healing process and reduce stress.
  • Implemented creative approaches tailored to individual clients' needs, promoting personal growth and healing.
  • Enhanced client satisfaction by providing compassionate holistic care that addressed physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
  • Promoted holistic health by integrating physical, mental, and emotional wellness strategies into client sessions.

Education

Master of Science - Dance Education

Temple University
Philadelphia, PA

Skills

  • Goal setting
  • Multicultural sensitivity
  • Documentation and reporting
  • Assessment and treatment planning
  • Behavior management strategies
  • Stress management techniques
  • Icebreakers
  • Problem solving
  • Creative program development
  • Brainstorming
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Reliability
  • Creativity

Experience

Part time caretaker for my 100 year old mother.

Languages

English

Interests

Gardening, Tai Chi, art and dance, collectibles

Timeline

Tai Chi Instructor

Cape Henlopen Senior Center
05.2020 - Current

Activity Therapist

Dover Behavioral Health System
06.2008 - 11.2024

Stress Management Facilitator

Lifeworks Services, Self Employed
03.1994 - 04.2008

Master of Science - Dance Education

Temple University
Sharon Downs