Experienced Substance Abuse Addiction Specialist with over 20 years as a certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor. Expertise in counseling individuals with co-occurring disorders, utilizing motivational interviewing and a variety of evidence-based treatment methodologies. Certified and skilled in facilitating groups such as Matrix, Seeking Safety, and CBISA. Successfully led relapse prevention and psychoeducational groups, effectively engaging diverse client populations. Additionally, certified as an Anger Management and Batterer Intervention facilitator. Extensive experience working in both inpatient and outpatient treatment settings for adults and adolescents.
I obtained a position as a Substance Abuse Specialist with the Kern High School District and WorkForce, working within behavior and support services. In this role, I supported adolescents who were credit deficient and at-risk youth on probation. Additionally, I served as the Program Director for the Visitor Center at Lancaster State Prison, where I provided counseling and support services to the families and children of inmates. I also held the position of Journey Counselor for the Prison Industry Authority under a special contract, delivering Substance Use Disorder (SUD) counseling and rehabilitation services to incarcerated individuals, helping them develop the skills necessary for successful reintegration upon parole.