Experienced mental health professional with a huge passion for helping others, in various life circumstances. Skilled in reflective listening, relationship-building, and problem-solving. Known for having a collaborative approach and commitment to building meaningful support for all.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
LGBTQ Crisis Counselor
CommUnity
06.2023 - Current
Provided crisis intervention counseling services to individuals in need of emotional support and guidance
Allowed clients to convey emotions by providing safe space for expression
Educated clients on coping skills, stress management techniques, and communication strategies
Implemented safety planning techniques with high risk clients to help them manage their emotions during difficult times
Supported additional treatment by offering connections to relevant specialist care
Offered supportive listening and empathy during times of distress for those who were unable to access traditional forms of therapy due to financial constraints
Actively participated in team meetings with other counselors to discuss case updates and best practices
Cultivated strong relationships with clients by quickly establishing rapport
Created a supportive atmosphere which enabled open dialogue between counselors, and callers.
Birth and Postpartum Doula
Self
11.2016 - 09.2019
I was fortunate enough to receive training from The MInnesota Prison Doula Project. This training is very close to my heart, and I was lucky enough to support many mothers through this program.
I supported over 60 families during the birth of their child.
I supported over 70 families in postpartum by processing big emotions, helping with newborn care, and educating on various subjects.
Taught childbirth preparation classes to expectant parents.
I ran a postpartum support group within my community.
Assisted with postpartum care and provided guidance on postpartum recovery.
Educated patients on breastfeeding and provided lactation support.
Counseled patients and families on reproductive health and contraception.
Life Skills Worker
Accurate Home Care
09.2015 - 09.2016
Worked in home with youth that needed specialized mental health support.
I helped with skill building inside homes with youth and their family members.
Helped youth process big emotions.
Built rapport with each client individually
Completed regular check-ins and progress report for each client.
Monitored clients' overall health and well-being and noted significant changes.
Youth Counselor
St. Cloud Children's Home
09.2012 - 08.2015
During my time at the Children's Home, I was promoted to lead staff, and this gave me an opportunity to organize shifts, support co-workers, assist in the hiring process, run therapeutic groups, and train in new staff.
Transported youths to school, appointments and various recreational outings
Provided crisis intervention and emotional support to youth.
Established trusting relationships with youth through active listening and empathy
Talked to children to help guide through hard times and situations
Implemented evidence-based interventions designed to reduce challenging behaviors and promote healthy development
Participated in clinical team planning and implementation of appropriate treatment intervention for each client
Enforced safety regulations while maintaining a safe environment for all participants
Horse Riding Instructor
Mihara Riding Club
07.2010 - 08.2012
This was a Japanese owned barn, and I was fortunate to run the horse riding program for the Americans that were in this area living on the Military base.
I was able to work directly alongside the Japanese owners, and learned so much about their culture.
Taught proper communication and riding commands for optimal control and safety around horses.
Provided guidance and support to young people in developing life skills, such as problem-solving, communication, decision-making and conflict resolution
Maintained records of lesson progress for each student and provided feedback on performance improvements
Encouraged teamwork among riders by organizing team building activities such as relay races or scavenger hunts
Managed daily barn operations including feeding schedules, cleaning stalls and paddocks and scheduling veterinary appointments
Demonstrated proper techniques for mounting, dismounting, balancing, steering and stopping a horse
Assisted in the care of horses by grooming them prior to lessons, checking hooves and providing basic medical treatments when necessary
Provided guidance to students in the selection of suitable horses for their level of experience
Developed relationships with local organizations that promoted equestrian sports through volunteer work or fundraising efforts
Ensured that safety protocols were followed during each lesson or activity with students