According to my academic plan, I have already successfully tackled all my "Summer 2010" goals. I am now working on Fall Semester 2010 goals. My academic plan is as follows:
This fall I will be taking MAT 1010 at Utah Valley University. I will be putting my best effort into passing this course, as I know I am not strong in math and have had a year break. I will need to focus in class, ask questions, stay after or come early if needed, use Math Lab, ask my husband to tutor me, and use my time at home wisely. My baby will be watched by his grandma while I am at class which will help me focus better.
I will also be meeting with my school advisor this fall semester to look ahead at what I need to do to further educate myself in Substance Abuse counseling. I will be able to better lay out my education plan after this.
I know I need one more math course after Math 1010 to complete my Associates. My husband and I are not sure if we will be in Utah after this fall. I need to speak to my advisor about how I can take that last Math 1030 course and complete my Associates. I will have these questions answered before December 2010.
Career Plan as follows: I am not planning on working until I am closer to completing my schooling. I am a new mom that prefers to be at home for the time being. If my husband and I move to Oregon by next year, I may possibly volunteer once a week at a local behavioral health center. I will have my parents there to watch my son. I may be taking online courses for my Substance Abuse counseling degree. This depends on my options based on my advisor's input.
In less than 5 years, I plan on having my degree in substance abuse counseling. I hope to be using my degree at least part time. I also want to get a trained pet therapy dog (or another animal) and be starting a side job of hospital, retirement home, treatment centers, or home visits to those who are ill or afflicted with other burdens. Who knows what will come after this, but this goal should be attainable within the next 5 years (god-willing!).
The most important thing I have learned is from the self-assessment and the career webquests. I had a general idea about the things I was good at, preferred, enjoyed doing, and my personality. I didn't know much about how to apply who I was to the real world. I was so amazed at the self-assessment assignment. I have applied it already to so much of what I do. I also would have remained in the same naive place I was in if I did not do my research on specific careers. I knew I wanted to study psychology. It wasn't until I really dissected the psychology major and researched what I could do with that degree that my eyes opened. I have now narrowed it down to one or two things I would love best to do as a career. I feel so much more confident now when people ask me what I am going into. Instead of "psychology", I can say "I'm working towards my substance abuse counseling degree". It feels so good, and it sets the wheels in motion.
So, with this course coming to an end, I must say that I have a newfound excitement for sticking with getting an education. I was walking in the dark before, but now I know where I want to go, and I am equipped with the skills I need to get there. What a relief!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Decision Making Model
THIS or THAT?
Step 1: WRITE THE DECISION DOWN ON PAPER to make it concrete and visual.
Step 2: WRITE DOWN WHAT MY INITIAL FEELINGS ARE (without asking anyone else for advice yet). I want to know what I feel and think on my own so I know that my decision is not soley based on pleasing others, etc.
Step 3: CONSULT with someone close (SPOUSE, PARENTS, Etc) and get their input.
Step 4: Revisit step 2 and REWRITE any NEW FEELINGS or OPTIONS or IDEAS and PROS/CONS. Ask myself "What's the worst that could happen?" After I figure out this, things usually aren't so unknown and scary.
Step 5: SLEEP ON IT if possible for a few days (I usually get excited about stuff and later think it's totally dumb, so this is so important for me)
Step 6: PICK A DECISION, and decide to learn from it even if it ends up not working out.
STAR Stories
1. Give an example of what teamwork means to you.
SITUATION: At a previous job of mine assisting girls with disabilities, our team had monthly house audits to prepare for.
TASK: Not always would each team member complete their duties on time, which made it difficult for others and resulted in the team, as a whole, being disciplined. I wanted there to be fairness and make sure everyone cared about doing their work on time for the sake of the team.
ACTION: I raised the issue gently, but firmly at a meeting, which led to a collective understanding of the importance of doing each job on time, as the tasks built on each other..
RESULT: Team members immediately began doing their duties on time, and even assisting others with additional tasks. As we began to understand the importance of teamwork, frustration levels lowered, and our residential home passed our audits consecutively in the months to follow, even resulting in awards for outstanding residential audit scores.
2. Give me an example of a major challenge you faced, and how you went about addressing the problem, and how it turned out.
SITUATION: At the same job I spoke of earlier, a girl who was in my care stole the staff keys while I was attending another girl, broke into the staff closet, and removed my car keys. All unknown to me, she got into my car and stole over $50 and several CDs.
TASK: I needed to confront the issue. I knew not to call her out in front of others, I also knew not to accuse or attack this girl, as I was aware this would only cause defensiveness. I let a few days pass, allowing her the opportunity to choose on her own to be honest.
ACTION: I described how I was missing some items. When she did not come forth after a few days, I pulled her aside and let her know the consequences that would follow which involved her behavioral team knowing, her state case workers, and eventually the police. When she chose not to come forward after this, and proceeded to get angry, I chose to inform her care team in a meeting. This was difficult for me to do, but ultimately for the good.
RESULTS: This girl lost privileges, had more restrictions, and had to repay me. Although the entire situation was challenging, I kept my cool, and was gentle and discrete about the issue as much as possible. Our staff-client relationship was not damaged and she expressed appreciation for helping her learn about honesty and the concept of right and wrong. I was overall pleased with the actions that I took, as this situation could have easily caused overreaction.
3. Describe a past goal and how you achieved it.
SITUATION: I am proud to say that through much work, I have recovered from a long struggle with an eating disorder.
TASK: I knew my behaviors were negatively impacting my life and the lives around me. I decided that I needed professional help, and decided to move away from my family to seek treatment at the age of 17.
ACTION: For 2 months, I put much determination and effort into my intense recovery program and tackled my unhealthy behaviors. I learned to communicate effectively with others, to better manage stress and conflict, and to take a proactive approach to working around contingencies.
RESULTS: I have since worked hard at utilizing the tools I gained from treatment to keep myself healthy and stable. I have reached and maintained my goal of recovery of which I am very proud.
SITUATION: At a previous job of mine assisting girls with disabilities, our team had monthly house audits to prepare for.
TASK: Not always would each team member complete their duties on time, which made it difficult for others and resulted in the team, as a whole, being disciplined. I wanted there to be fairness and make sure everyone cared about doing their work on time for the sake of the team.
ACTION: I raised the issue gently, but firmly at a meeting, which led to a collective understanding of the importance of doing each job on time, as the tasks built on each other..
RESULT: Team members immediately began doing their duties on time, and even assisting others with additional tasks. As we began to understand the importance of teamwork, frustration levels lowered, and our residential home passed our audits consecutively in the months to follow, even resulting in awards for outstanding residential audit scores.
2. Give me an example of a major challenge you faced, and how you went about addressing the problem, and how it turned out.
SITUATION: At the same job I spoke of earlier, a girl who was in my care stole the staff keys while I was attending another girl, broke into the staff closet, and removed my car keys. All unknown to me, she got into my car and stole over $50 and several CDs.
TASK: I needed to confront the issue. I knew not to call her out in front of others, I also knew not to accuse or attack this girl, as I was aware this would only cause defensiveness. I let a few days pass, allowing her the opportunity to choose on her own to be honest.
ACTION: I described how I was missing some items. When she did not come forth after a few days, I pulled her aside and let her know the consequences that would follow which involved her behavioral team knowing, her state case workers, and eventually the police. When she chose not to come forward after this, and proceeded to get angry, I chose to inform her care team in a meeting. This was difficult for me to do, but ultimately for the good.
RESULTS: This girl lost privileges, had more restrictions, and had to repay me. Although the entire situation was challenging, I kept my cool, and was gentle and discrete about the issue as much as possible. Our staff-client relationship was not damaged and she expressed appreciation for helping her learn about honesty and the concept of right and wrong. I was overall pleased with the actions that I took, as this situation could have easily caused overreaction.
3. Describe a past goal and how you achieved it.
SITUATION: I am proud to say that through much work, I have recovered from a long struggle with an eating disorder.
TASK: I knew my behaviors were negatively impacting my life and the lives around me. I decided that I needed professional help, and decided to move away from my family to seek treatment at the age of 17.
ACTION: For 2 months, I put much determination and effort into my intense recovery program and tackled my unhealthy behaviors. I learned to communicate effectively with others, to better manage stress and conflict, and to take a proactive approach to working around contingencies.
RESULTS: I have since worked hard at utilizing the tools I gained from treatment to keep myself healthy and stable. I have reached and maintained my goal of recovery of which I am very proud.
Resume
4120 S. 570 E. #26K • MURRAY, UTAH 84107• 801-555-1234 • ERIN_ROBINSON@HOTMAIL.COM
ERIN ROBINSON
OBJECTIVE
To obtain Substance Abuse Counselor position at the XYZ facility.
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
- First Aid Training
- SOAR (Restraint) Training
- CPR Training
- Solid experience and knowledge of 12 - Step Programs (AA, OEA, NA)
- Personal experience in treatment facility settings
- Drug-free and mentally healthy
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
EDUCATION
2007 - Present
Utah Valley University
Orem, Utah
- Behavioral Science/Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counseling Major
- Associates of Science, anticipated graduation December 2010.
WORK OF EXPERIENCE
July 2008 - April 2009
Chrysalis
Provo, Utah
Direct Support Professional
- Taught individuals with physical/psychological disabilities daily living skills.
- Planned appropriate daily activities within the home and community.
- Provided clean, healthy, and safe environment.
- Strictly followed individual Behavioral Plans and Supervision Guidelines.
- Assisted and supervised individuals with taking appropriate medications.
- Accurately documented daily behaviors and incident reports.
- Corresponded with team of therapists, doctors, and family members.
- Received SOAR, CPR & First Aid training.
March 2007 - July 2007
The Seville Orem, Utah
Kitchen Aide/Maintenance
- Maintained sanitary kitchen environment by adhering to detailed procedures.
- Prepared wholesome meals for retirement community of 100+ residents.
- Effectively managed time to keep kitchen crew on schedule.
- Gained meaningful relationships with residents through service and interactive activities.
- Maintained property grounds by weeding, planting, mowing, and painting.
- Assisted lead maintenance employee with various repairs and duties.
April 2004 - June 2004
Zimmerman Family Coral Springs, Florida
Live-in Nanny
- Responsible for the safety and supervision of two children under age of 3.
- Documented daily activities, behaviors, and food intake for parents.
- Prepared daily activities for children at home and in the community.
- Effectively managed conflicts between siblings.
- Maintained household order, cleanliness, and safety with daily duties.
- Assisted family with child supervision while accompanying family on outings and vacations
Cover Letter
July 15, 2010
Dear XYZ,
Six years ago, I was a resident at the XYC Center. I strongly value your treatment center’s philosophy and the care you provide. I am familiar with how your facility operates and the mission of your service, and believe I can be a valuable asset to the Center’s team.
In my past work experience, I was fortunate to have gained many priceless skills assisting women with various behavioral and psychological disorders. I have become equipped with skills that I can bring to your facility such as managing conflict, providing support for others, assisting in patient goal-setting, working with a care team, and being sensitive to the needs of those I am serving. The job was challenging, as each day was unpredictable and presented new situations. I enjoyed listening, supporting, and guiding the women through their daily experiences and challenges. I enjoy being kept on my feet, and I am always looking for ways to solve solutions, improve lives, be proactive, and exercise patience and understanding.
Above all, my past experiences have taught me that improvement is absolutely possible for those who are deeply entrenched in behavioral and psychological disorders, if the proper amount of support and unconditional care is provided. I am confident that I can be a valuable member of your team, and play a positive role in the resident’s lives at the XYZ Center.
Thank you for your consideration.
Erin Robinson
Dear XYZ,
Six years ago, I was a resident at the XYC Center. I strongly value your treatment center’s philosophy and the care you provide. I am familiar with how your facility operates and the mission of your service, and believe I can be a valuable asset to the Center’s team.
In my past work experience, I was fortunate to have gained many priceless skills assisting women with various behavioral and psychological disorders. I have become equipped with skills that I can bring to your facility such as managing conflict, providing support for others, assisting in patient goal-setting, working with a care team, and being sensitive to the needs of those I am serving. The job was challenging, as each day was unpredictable and presented new situations. I enjoyed listening, supporting, and guiding the women through their daily experiences and challenges. I enjoy being kept on my feet, and I am always looking for ways to solve solutions, improve lives, be proactive, and exercise patience and understanding.
Above all, my past experiences have taught me that improvement is absolutely possible for those who are deeply entrenched in behavioral and psychological disorders, if the proper amount of support and unconditional care is provided. I am confident that I can be a valuable member of your team, and play a positive role in the resident’s lives at the XYZ Center.
Thank you for your consideration.
Erin Robinson
Internship Opportunities
The Center for Drug-Free Living, Inc. (Orlando, FL) www.cfdfl.com
The Center accepts students enrolled in various colleges and universities as interns in our prevention, treatment, and juvenile justice programs. The Center is committed to providing valuable and practical experiences to students in exchange for their service and assistance in our programs. Internship opportunities with qualified supervisors are available for social work, mental health counseling, and marriage & family therapy students currently enrolled in Master's degree programs as well as currently enrolled Doctoral psychology students. The Center also accepts undergraduate students enrolled in social work, psychology, sociology, criminal justice, and related classes.
Mental Health Counselor (Licensed and Master-Interns) www.college.monster.com (Burlington, NJ)
To provide intensive in-home counseling services to children and families; helping manage emotional and behavioral problems; monitoring general behavior and functioning; modifying treatment plan as needed.
Behavioral Health Technician (Boca Raton, FL)
The Behavioral Health Technician is a member of the multidisciplinary team, who is directly involved in providing quality care for patients. The Behavioral Health Tech is responsible for facilitating meetings and providing structure for, during, and after hours and weekend activities. The position requires a lot of walking and Techs must be able to remain on their feet throughout their shift. The Behavioral Health Tech works within the facilities policies and procedures and in accordance with the standards of the State and Federal regulations. www.thewatershed.com/employment/php
Internships in Substance Abuse and Mental Health at Park Avenue Center (Minneapolis, MN)
For students nearing completion of their educational requirements for their addiction program, Park Avenue Center offers a wonderfully broad experience in all 12 Core Functions. Interns will work with our Co-occurring Disorders Programs, Intensive Outpatient Programs that provide free offsite housing, Primary Outpatient Programs, Problem Solving Courts including Drug and DWI Court Programs, Substance Abuse Assessments, and our Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Program. Our diverse programs, culturally diverse clientele and staff, and overwhelming support provide a unique experience and an outstanding substance abuse internship. www.parkavenuecenter.com
Recreational Therapy Internship Program (Salt Lake City, Utah)
The Utah State Hospital Social Work Services is committed to providing high quality training in social work which includes an exposure to a variety of clinical experiences. The program accepts 6 professional interns per semester. The interns work directly with the unit Recreation Therapist and function as a member of the unit treatment team. They participate in Therapeutic Recreation programming to complete the number of hours required by their college and NCTRC regulations www.ush.utah.gov/intern.htm
The Center accepts students enrolled in various colleges and universities as interns in our prevention, treatment, and juvenile justice programs. The Center is committed to providing valuable and practical experiences to students in exchange for their service and assistance in our programs. Internship opportunities with qualified supervisors are available for social work, mental health counseling, and marriage & family therapy students currently enrolled in Master's degree programs as well as currently enrolled Doctoral psychology students. The Center also accepts undergraduate students enrolled in social work, psychology, sociology, criminal justice, and related classes.
Mental Health Counselor (Licensed and Master-Interns) www.college.monster.com (Burlington, NJ)
To provide intensive in-home counseling services to children and families; helping manage emotional and behavioral problems; monitoring general behavior and functioning; modifying treatment plan as needed.
Behavioral Health Technician (Boca Raton, FL)
The Behavioral Health Technician is a member of the multidisciplinary team, who is directly involved in providing quality care for patients. The Behavioral Health Tech is responsible for facilitating meetings and providing structure for, during, and after hours and weekend activities. The position requires a lot of walking and Techs must be able to remain on their feet throughout their shift. The Behavioral Health Tech works within the facilities policies and procedures and in accordance with the standards of the State and Federal regulations. www.thewatershed.com/employment/php
Internships in Substance Abuse and Mental Health at Park Avenue Center (Minneapolis, MN)
For students nearing completion of their educational requirements for their addiction program, Park Avenue Center offers a wonderfully broad experience in all 12 Core Functions. Interns will work with our Co-occurring Disorders Programs, Intensive Outpatient Programs that provide free offsite housing, Primary Outpatient Programs, Problem Solving Courts including Drug and DWI Court Programs, Substance Abuse Assessments, and our Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Program. Our diverse programs, culturally diverse clientele and staff, and overwhelming support provide a unique experience and an outstanding substance abuse internship. www.parkavenuecenter.com
Recreational Therapy Internship Program (Salt Lake City, Utah)
The Utah State Hospital Social Work Services is committed to providing high quality training in social work which includes an exposure to a variety of clinical experiences. The program accepts 6 professional interns per semester. The interns work directly with the unit Recreation Therapist and function as a member of the unit treatment team. They participate in Therapeutic Recreation programming to complete the number of hours required by their college and NCTRC regulations www.ush.utah.gov/intern.htm
Why YOU Should Do An Internship!
The top 6 things you will gain
NETWORKING By working for a company, you can get your name out there and meet a lot of important people. It will help you to develop relationships to the point of having mentors within your specific field. This will come in handy after you have graduated and are looking for a job.
"REAL TIME" EXPERIENCE More than half of all college students end up changing their major during the course of their college education. By doing an internship, you can more fully understand if you are interested in actually working in your chosen field. Finding this out before getting too far through the requirements for your major will save you a lot of time and money spent on extra education that you may not be able to use. In addition to learning about your own responsibilities, you are able to observe coworkers in other positions and decide if you are interested in working in any of those areas.
PERSONAL GROWTH An internship will allow you to learn the skills and gain the confidence that you can only achieve with hands-on, real world experience. It also gives you the opportunity to come face-to-face with the challenges that you can’t necessarily learn about from a text book or a in classroom setting.
RESUME STRENGTH An internship will give you an edge over someone who may be applying for the same position that has little experience. On average, only 30% of graduating seniors have job offers before graduation; however, after completing an internship, that figure rises to 58%. Simply put, it looks good on a resume!
SMOOTH TRANSITION They are the perfect segway into the professional working environment. No lost time between college and career!
IMPROVE COMMUNICATION Internships will expose you to situations that will allow you to work on your communication skills through professional interaction. Use this time to connect and demonstrate your abilities to work well with others.
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