Wanda Cowan
Topeka,KS
Summary
Passionate counselor dedicated to improving the lives of and providing support and resources for individuals struggling with substance abuse disorders (addiction) and other behavioral disorders. .
Good academic and working knowledge of DSM V, community resources, psychotropic medications, crisis intervention, clinical methods, and procedures. intervention techniques and ability to apply same to possibly unstable, treatment resistant adult/adolescent/child of various ethnic cultures for co-occurring disorders to include five years of training in clinical programming in a behavioral health setting. Knowledge of behavioral management, de-escalation methods, crisis intervention, and defusing techniques to prevent violent behavior harmful to self or others and the ability to apply these techniques to a client population in various levels of crisis. Basic knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office. Ability to perform duties with or without supervision. Experience working with multi-cultural and low socio-economic individuals. General knowledge & aptitude for working independently with adults and teens of mixed ethnic groups.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor
BAART Programs Topeka Treatment Center
01.2023 - Current
- Developed individual treatment goals based on history and diagnosis.
- Guided clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
- Displayed sensitivity to cultural and linguistic needs of clients and families served.
- Provided comprehensive case management services, including creating treatment plans and connecting clients and families to appropriate resources.
- Completed required documentation for continued therapy coverage by insurance companies to meet deadlines.
- Provided counseling and support to clients with drug and alcohol abuse issues.
- Collected urine samples to test for substance use.
- Developed goal-oriented psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to improve clients' level of functioning.
- Directed family-centered, strengths-based, culturally competent and individualized intakes and assessments.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Performed duties in accordance with all applicable standards, policies and regulatory guidelines to promote safe working environment.
- Delivered exceptional level of service to each customer by listening to concerns and answering questions.
- Monitored client progress through regular evaluations and adjusted treatment plans accordingly for optimal results.
- Maintained detailed case files and documentation, ensuring accurate records and efficient communication among team members.
- Conducted thorough assessments of clients'' substance use histories and needs, guiding the development of targeted interventions.
- Provided crisis intervention services as needed, supporting clients in overcoming challenges during their recovery journey.
- Strengthened client resilience by teaching effective coping strategies for managing stressors related to substance abuse triggers.
- Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to encourage positive change in clients'' attitudes towards recovery from addiction.
- Connected clients with community resources to support long-term sobriety and healthy living.
- Educated families about addiction''s impact on individuals and relationships, promoting understanding and support throughout the recovery process.
- Assisted clients in identifying personal goals related to sobriety and developed action plans to achieve them.
- Coordinated care with other professionals such as physicians, psychiatrists, and social workers to ensure comprehensive support for clients.
- Established rapport with clients by demonstrating empathy and understanding while maintaining professional boundaries at all times.
- Kept accurate and detailed records to track and document client progress.
- Coordinated care with other professionals to provide clients with comprehensive support.
- Supported and assessed clients struggling with addiction or relationship issues and devised strategies based on client needs.
- Supported aftercare planning for continued recovery after treatment.
- Coordinated referrals for addiction services based on individual client needs and preferences.
Licensed Clinical Addiction Supervisor and Counsel
Mirrors Inpatient & Outpatient
02.2022 - 11.2022
- Collected and analyzed data on individual clients using records, tests, interviews and professional sources.
- Led supportive group discussions and education sessions with alcohol and drug users and their families.
- Educated clients and their families about client rights and responsibilities to reduce recidivism
- Provided ongoing case management to clients to implement appropriate treatment plan, adhere to quality models and maximize utilization of services needed to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Responded to crisis situations with calm and professional approach to optimize support.
- Served as a liaison between clients and social service agencies, including the criminal justice system (agencies) advocating for additional resources whenever necessary.
- Educated family members on the nature of addiction and ways they could best support their loved ones during treatment and beyond.
- Developed customized aftercare plans for discharged clients, ensuring they had access to ongoing support services upon completion of formal treatment programs.
- Oversaw daily operations of the department, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
- Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
- Implemented safety protocols to minimize workplace accidents and maintain compliance with industry standards.
- Resolved conflicts among team members promptly, maintaining a harmonious working environment conducive to productivity.
- Demonstrated commitment to the organization''s core values, leading by example and fostering a culture of excellence.
- Reduced conflict incidents significantly, fostering cohesive team environment through effective conflict resolution strategies.
- Identified operational inefficiencies and implemented corrective measures to increase effectiveness.
Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor
Mirrors
03.2022 - 09.2022
- Supervised the counselor interns and facilitated staff trainings.
- Counseled interns to help them understand and overcome personal, social and behavioral problems.
- Educated clients about their rights and responsibilities for personal recovery.
- Encouraged clients to get involved in social, recreational and other therapeutic activities to enhance interpersonal skills and develop social relationships.
- Maintained compliance with state and federal standards in all areas of operations.
- Lead and directed team of 2 clinical personnel, one intern and support staff.
- Responded to crisis situations with calm and professional approach to optimize support.
- Participated in clinical research and evidence-based clinical audits and leveraged data to improve research-based methodologies within clinical areas.
- Developed, implemented, revised and evaluated policies and procedures.
- Monitored, analyzed and corrected staff performance and worked with management team to raise standards of practice.
- Developed improvement plans to solve problems and improve team moral.
- Provided ongoing case management to all patients to implement appropriate treatment plan, adhere to quality models and maximize utilization of services needed to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Developed and adjusted work schedules for clinical staff.
- Promoted self-care practices among clients, teaching them effective stress management techniques that contributed to lasting recovery success.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in addiction counseling and treatment methodologies.
- Evaluated client progress and adjusted treatment plans as needed to ensure continued success in their recovery journey.
- Served as a liaison between clients and social service agencies, advocating for additional resources whenever necessary.
- Educated family members on the nature of addiction and ways they could best support their loved ones during treatment and beyond.
- Assessed patients, determined needs, and managed care.
- Conducted performance evaluations for clinical staff, identifying areas for development and implementing targeted training programs.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular staff meetings, case conferences, and training sessions.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory standards by conducting regular audits of clinical records and procedures.
- Managed caseloads effectively, ensuring timely assessments, treatment planning, and progress monitoring.
Inpatient Substance Abuse Counselor
Centurion - Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex
12.2020 - 02.2022
- Guided clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
- Displayed sensitivity to cultural and linguistic needs of clients and families served.
- Provided counseling and support to incarcerated adolescent with drug and alcohol abuse issues.
- Completed required documentation for continued therapy coverage by insurance companies to meet deadlines.
- Provided comprehensive case management services, including creating treatment plans and preparing youth for aftercare after completion of required treatment for reintegration after released from facility.
- Taught substance abuse classes to help clients understand consequences of drug and alcohol use.
- Developed relapse prevention strategies for clients transitioning out of treatment programs, empowering them to maintain long-term sobriety.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans, ensuring continuity of care for clients.
- Advocated for clients'' needs within the legal system, ensuring access to essential services and support during rehabilitation efforts.
Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor
Behavioral Health Group & Recovery
11.2019 - 02.2020
- Evaluated client progress and adjusted treatment plans as needed to ensure continued success in their recovery journey.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in addiction counseling and treatment methodologies.
- Enhanced patient recovery by developing and implementing tailored treatment plans for each individual.
- Promoted self-care practices among clients, teaching them effective stress management techniques that contributed to lasting recovery success.
- Maintained detailed records of client interactions, ensuring accurate tracking of progress over time.
- Educated family members on the nature of addiction and ways they could best support their loved ones during treatment and beyond.
- Conducted thorough assessments to accurately diagnose individuals struggling with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Developed customized aftercare plans for discharged clients, ensuring they had access to ongoing support services upon completion of formal treatment programs.
- Offered professional, respectful therapy to addicted individuals in MAT.
- Established strong rapport with clients through active listening techniques and empathy, creating an environment conducive to healing.
- Provided crisis intervention services when necessary, quickly responding to emergencies and connecting clients with appropriate resources.
- Assisted clients in identifying triggers and developing personalized coping mechanisms, reducing the risk of relapse.
- Developed individual treatment goals based on history and diagnosis.
- Developed goal-oriented psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to improve clients' level of functioning.
Topeka Treatment Center
Riverwood Group
08.2011 - 11.2018
- Supported company growth through efficient repairs that contributed to increased client retention rates and repeat business.
- Improved turnaround time for mending services by implementing organized workflow, prioritizing urgent repairs.
- Implemented process improvements that resulted in reduced turnaround time for completed repairs without compromising quality.
- Developed comprehensive knowledge of fabric types and appropriate mending techniques, enhancing quality of repairs.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by maintaining a clean and organized workspace at all times.
- Monitored client progress through regular evaluations and adjusted treatment plans accordingly for optimal results.
- Developed comprehensive treatment plans for clients, resulting in increased success in achieving sobriety.
- Maintained detailed case files and documentation, ensuring accurate records and efficient communication among team members.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions, fostering a supportive environment for shared growth and healing.
- Enhanced client engagement with personalized counseling approaches tailored to individual needs and backgrounds.
- Provided crisis intervention services as needed, supporting clients in overcoming challenges during their recovery journey.
- Strengthened client resilience by teaching effective coping strategies for managing stressors related to substance abuse triggers.
- Connected clients with community resources to support long-term sobriety and healthy living.
- Ensured compliance with state regulations governing licensed substance abuse counselors while maintaining ethical standards in all activities.
- Educated families about addiction''s impact on individuals and relationships, promoting understanding and support throughout the recovery process.
- Assisted clients in identifying personal goals related to sobriety and developed action plans to achieve them.
- Coordinated care with other professionals such as physicians, psychiatrists, and social workers to ensure comprehensive support for clients.
- Established rapport with clients by demonstrating empathy and understanding while maintaining professional boundaries at all times.
- Facilitated group and individual therapy in outpatient setting.
- Kept accurate and detailed records to track and document client progress.
- Provided counseling and support to clients with drug and alcohol abuse issues.
- Developed individual treatment goals based on history and diagnosis.
Director Medication Assisted Treatment Center
Riverwood Group
08.2011 - 01.2016
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or business operations.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
- Boosted client satisfaction rates through exceptional relationship management and prompt resolution of issues.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Human Service
Washburn University, Topeka Kansas
Topeka, United States05.2005
Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor - Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor
Greg Love Ledge LCDC School
Austin, TX05.2002
Skills
- Individual and Group counseling
- Facilitating staff meetings
Clinical Supervision
- Specimen testing
- Individual counseling
- Providing Community Referrals
- Community Resources
- Clinical Assessment
- Case Management
- Treatment Planning
- Clinical Documentation
- Crisis Intervention
- Familiar with DSM-V
- Verbal and written communication skills
- Training & Development
- Organization and Time management
- Troubleshooting
- Collaboration
- Interpersonal Communication
- Analytical skills
- Relapse Prevention
- Multicultural Competence
- Individual Counseling
- Motivational Interviewing
- Boundary Setting
- Anger Management
- Client Advocacy
- Psychoeducation
Timeline
Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor
BAART Programs Topeka Treatment Center
01.2023 - Current
Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor
Mirrors
03.2022 - 09.2022
Licensed Clinical Addiction Supervisor and Counsel
Mirrors Inpatient & Outpatient
02.2022 - 11.2022
Inpatient Substance Abuse Counselor
Centurion - Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex
12.2020 - 02.2022
Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor
Behavioral Health Group & Recovery
11.2019 - 02.2020
Topeka Treatment Center
Riverwood Group
08.2011 - 11.2018
Director Medication Assisted Treatment Center
Riverwood Group
08.2011 - 01.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Human Service
Washburn University, Topeka Kansas
Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor - Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor
Greg Love Ledge LCDC School
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