Final Reflection

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!

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.

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

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

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.

My Best Career Fit

I know that I have a stronger desire to work towards a career as a substance abuse & behavioral disorder counselor because of personal experience.

The only thing I like about Recreational Therapy would be working with those who are affected by their addictions and disorders in a treatment facility setting. I would not so much care for working with those who have lost their physical abilities. I’m interested in mental health care.

Mental health counseling would still be involved in substance abuse/behavioral disorder counseling.

I know that addictions counseling will require a Master’s degree and lots of hard work, but the work means so much to me that I am willing to pay the price to get there.

Career Webquest Research

Mental Health Counselor

NATURE OF WORK

• Counsels with emphasis on prevention
• Work with individuals and groups to promote optimal mental health
• May help individuals deal with:
• Addictions & substance abuse
• Family, parenting & marital problems
• Suicide
• Stress management
• Problems with self-esteem
• Issues related to aging, and mental and emotional health
• May be involved in community outreach, advocacy, and mediation activities.
• Often work closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, psychiatric nurses, and school counselors

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Private practice
• Community Health Organizations
• Day Treatment Programs
• Hospitals
• Many work in an office where they see clients throughout the day
• May be required to provide service out in the community

TRAINING

• Varies by state and specialty
• Master’s Degree is often required to obtain certification
• Many hours of supervised clinical experience
• Complete 100 Continuing Education hours OR retake board exam every 5 years

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong desire to help others
• Ability to inspire respect, trust and confidence
• Ability to work independently or in a team
• Must follow a code of ethics associated with their certifications and licenses.
• Must possess highly physical and emotional energy

POTENTIAL FOR ADVANCEMENT

• Prospects for advancement vary by counseling field
• Some counselors move into private practices, research, teaching, or consulting
• Pursuing a Doctoral Degree will further enhance opportunities for advancement.

EMPLOYMENT

United States: 113,300 (2008)
Utah: 560 (2006)

EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK

United States: 140,500 (2018)

Utah: 880 (2016)

TYPICAL EARNINGS

United States: $17.70 or $36,800

Utah: $22.04 or $45,800

RELATED OCCUPATIONS

• Child, Family & School Social Worker
• Social and Human Service Assistant
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Recreational Therapist
• Residential Advisor

SKILLS: active listening, social perceptiveness, critical thinking, service orientation, active learning, learning strategies, speaking, reading comprehension, time management, monitoring

INTERESTS: Working with, communicating and teaching others. Enjoys helping others. Working with ideas, extensive amount of thinking, searching for facts, figuring out problems mentally. Working with forms, designs, and patterns. Self-expression, work can be done with out following set of rules.

WORK STYLES: Self control, concern for others, dependability, stress tolerance, social orientation, adaptability/flexibility, integrity, cooperation, attention to detail, achievement/effort.

VALUES: Relationships, achievement, independence

MBTI TYPE: Social Investigative Artistic

Career Webquest Research

Recreational Therapist

NATURE OF WORK

• 
  
  Provide treatment services and recreation activities for individuals with disabilities and illnesses
• 
  
  Uses variety of techniques to maintain the physical, mental and emotional health of clients such as: arts & crafts, animals, sports, games, dance & movement, drama, music, community outings.
• 
  
  Help clients reduce depression, anxiety and stress.
• 
  
  As they work, therapists observe and document a patient's participation, reactions, and progress

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Provide services in special activity rooms.
• Plans activities in office settings.
• Generally work 40-hour weeks.
• Travel in community to clients or while assisting with community activities.
• May work in: Substance abuse rehabilitation centers, assisted-living centers, adult day care, special
• education programs, hospitals, inpatient treatment centers.

TRAINING

• Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation OR in Recreation with emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation
• Internship in field of work (480 hours)
• Utah requires state license
• Certification is voluntary, but preferred by employers

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be comfortable working with ill and disabled.
• Must be patient, tactful, and persuasive.
• Ingenuity, sense of humor and imagination are needed to adapt activities to individual needs.
• Good physical coordination needed to demonstrate or participate in activities.

 POTENTIAL FOR ADVANCEMENT

• May advance to supervisory or administrative positions
• May teach
• May conduct research
• May consult for health and social services agencies

EMPLOYMENT

United States: 23,300 (2008)

Utah: 260 (2006)

EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK

United States: 26,700 (2018)

Utah: 300 (2016)

TYPICAL EARNINGS

United States: $18.45 or $38,400

Utah: $16.49 or $34,300

RELATED OCCUPATIONS

• Child, Family & School Social Workers
• Physical Therapists
• Occupational Therapists
• Counselors
• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Teachers- Special Education

SKILLS: active listening, speaking, service orientation, social perceptiveness, coordination, critical thinking, reading comprehension, complex problem-solving, instructing, writing.


INTERESTS: working with, communicating, and teaching people. Helping and providing service to others.

WORK STYLES: Concern for others, self control, dependability, integrity, social orientation, adaptability/flexibility, cooperation, stress tolerance, initiative, independence.

VALUES: Relationships, achievement, and independence.

MBTI TYPE: Social Artistic

Career Webquest Research

Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor

NATURE OF WORK

• 
  
  Help people who have problems with alcohol, drugs, gambling and eating disorders.
• Counsel individuals and help them to identify behavioral issues and other problems related to their addictions.
• Works on one-to-one and group settings.
• Work includes: crisis counseling, daily or weekly counseling, or drop-in counseling support.
• Develops personalized recovery programs that help establish healthy behavior and coping strategies.
• Often works with family members who are also affected by the addictions.
• May conduct programs and community outreach to aid in addiction prevention.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Private practice
• Community Health Organizations
• Day Treatment Programs
• Hospitals

TRAINING

• Varies by state and specialty
• Most often a Master’s degree is required to become a licensed counselor
• 48-60 semester hours of graduate study, including supervised clinical experience
• Often must participate in graduate studies, workshops and personal studies to maintain licensure.
• Passing of state recognized exam
• Annual continuing education credits

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong desire to help others
• Ability to inspire respect, trust and confidence
• Ability to work independently or in a team
• Must follow a code of ethics associated with their certifications and licenses.
• Must possess highly physical and emotional energy

POTENTIAL FOR ADVANCEMENT

• May become supervisors or administrators in their agencies.
• May move into research, consulting, or college teaching or go into private or group practice.
• May choose to pursue a doctoral degree to improve their chances for advancement.

EMPLOYMENT

2008
United States: 86,100

Utah: 330

EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK

United States: 104,200 (2018)

Utah: 500 (2016)

TYPICAL EARNINGS

United States Average: $17.80 or $37,000
Utah Average: $20.39 or $42,400

RELATED OCCUPATIONS

• Recreational Therapist
• Occupational Therapists
• Psychologists
• Social and Human Service Assistants
• Residential Advisors
• Social Workers
• Teachers
• Teachers-Special Education

Skills: Active listening, Social perceptiveness, service orientation, speaking, time management, critical thinking, persuasion, reading comprehension, instructing, writing.

Interests: Social, Artistic, Investigative

Work Style: Integrity, concern for others, dependability, stress tolerance, self control, cooperation, adaptability/flexibility, initiative, persistence, social orientation.

Values: Relationships, achievement, independence.

MBTI TYPE: Social Artistic Investigative

Tempting 10 Careers

HEALTHCARE

1. Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor
2. Recreational Therapist
3. Mental Health Counselor
4. Marriage & Family Counselor
5. Social Worker
6. Psychologist
7. Occupational Therapist
8. Correctional Treatment Specialist
9. Psychiatric Aide

ART

1. Art Therapist
2. Recreational Therapist
3. Craft Artist
4. Illustrator
5. Photojournalist
6. Children's Book Author
7. Jeweler
8. Landscape Architect
9. Nature Photographer
10. Desktop Publisher

SMART Goals

S-specific
M-measurable
A-attainable
R-reinforcing
T-time centered

SMART SHORT-TERM GOAL 1:

• Pass Math 1010 course Fall semester 2010.
• Obtain C grade or higher. (I would shoot higher were it not for the "attainable" part. I am horrible at math. So a C is a great goal for me.)
• Class is on Tuesday & Thursday, so I will devote non-class days to strict studying (MWFS). Saturday morning will be study time. Sunday will be math-free.
• I will seek the support of my spouse. Have him babysit while I study.
• I will go on a fun mini-vacation if I pass this course (Oregon Coast).

SMART SHORT-TERM GOAL 2:

• Find distance education or local program in Substance Abuse Counseling.
• Pick one distance education program and one college that offers this degree.
• Find tuition costs, start dates, time required, and reputation.
• Settle on of the two choices.
• Decide when to start courses. Will I take a break?

SMART SHORT-TERM GOAL 3:

• Pass Math 1030 course Spring semester 2011.
• Obtain C grade or higher.
• Devote non-class days to strict studying. Each day of week. Sunday is math-free.
• Arrange for babysitting each night while I work on homework uninterrupted.
• Reward: Associates Degree!

SMART MID-TERM GOAL 1:

• Receive Substance Abuse counseling degree or certificate by age 28 (5 years).
• I have given myself 5 years to complete this goal. This means I can take a year off if I want a break, or if other contingencies pop up.
• Above short-term goals must be met first.

SMART MID-TERM GOAL 2:

• Work part-time for local substance abuse treatment center by age 28.
• I would like to work no more than 2 days a week in the beginning, if possible.
• Goal is to slowly ease my way back into the career world after being a stay-at-home mom.

SMART MID-TERM GOAL 3:

• Volunteer at addictions treatment center or hospital using pet therapy by age 30.
• Visit treatment center or hospitals once a month with a trained therapy pet.
•  Establish a reputation for my volunteer service with pet therapy by word-of-mouth, business cards, simple marketing, etc. 
•  Establish a network of at least 5 clients with reoccurring need for these services.
• This is beginning step towards a more long-term goal of turning this into a family business and working on my own.

Updated Career Action Plan

PLAN FOR SUMMER 2010

•  Receive A’s in Interpersonal Communication, Career & Major Exploration, and Geology courses.
• Actively seek others who are in my major, or reconnect with those in my network.
• Network: Dee Ann, Kim, Cheryl, Tara
• Enjoy motherhood and get out in the sun with my baby!

 PLAN FOR FALL 2010

•  Devote needed time to studying/receiving tutoring needed to pass Math 1010 course.
• Discuss with family my plans for further education. Are we staying in Utah? At UVU? Am I continuing education or taking a break?
• Pros: Keeping momentum and staying fresh. Getting degree sooner.
• Cons: Missing time with my son. Being tied down to school. Stressful juggling family and school.
• If moving, will I wait until I reach residency requirements for in-state tuition?
• Will I obtain education online or on campus?
• Action: Research online programs in Substance Abuse counseling.
• Research programs at university. Research programs online.
• Weigh options (time, travel, cost, credibility, etc)
• Is my choice of major still something I desire to work towards?
• Read books during leisure time that are career-related.
• Apply knowledge in family life and keep information fresh.

PLAN FOR SPRING SEMESTER 2011

• Take Math 1030 and pass.
• Take another online course of interest.
• Receive Associates Degree.

 PLAN FOR AFTER ASSOCIATES DEGREE IS OBTAINED (2011 - Beyond)

• Seek out schools with reputable degree programs in my field of interest.
• Get to know what is required to gain entrance into chosen schools.
• Is online school an option while I stay at home with the baby?
• Become familiar with companies near me where I would like to work/volunteer.
• Find community resources that will help me grow a larger network.
• Attend and participate in local group therapy meetings (AL-ANON, ED-ANON, etc.)
•  Edit this Personal Action Plan to layout further goals.

Job Shadow

Name of person shadowed: Cheryl McBride
Title: LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)
Company Name: Center For Change
Location: Orem, UT

I attended a support group held by Cheryl at the Center For Change. Due to her busy schedule, she asked if I could email her the questions I had, and unfortunately she has not replied. I don't know if she doesn't see my emails or what, because she agreed to help me with my informational interview and never replied to that email either. But nonetheless, it was a good experience. And maybe she will still email me when she finds the time. Anyways, here are the questions I asked her:

1. Are you allowed to participate (share your experiences & relate to others) in the group/individual discussions, or are you just suppose to guide the discussion and listen?

2. Is there room to counsel by your own philosophy or do you have to abide by guidelines/rules in your practice?

3. Can you describe a typical day in the office?

4. How much of your work is independent and how much do you work with a care team?

5. Besides listening, mirroring, and note-taking, what else is involved in your work?

6. Do you report to anyone? Care team, family, State?

7. If I wanted to counsel those with addictions and behavioral disorders, what do you suggest my education path be?

8. Let's say I was a "highly sensitive person" (this is related to the support group topic she discussed) --- does this personality type work well in this field? What are some challenges you have faced in the field?

Overall impression:
I loved the experience. I felt comfortable shadowing Cheryl as she was my old therapist many years ago. It was awkward to attend a support group and have to view it from a professional perspective. I felt a little sad that I was not able to participate and relate to the members attending the group. I learned that I have to separate myself from wanting to fall back into that level. I have to be professional and work hard to desire to be on the professional support side. I told my feelings to Cheryl, in which she replied "Oh, it's good for you. It keeps ya healthy." So, although the moment was awkward and different, it was an enlightening moment for me. I KNOW without a doubt this is what I want to do and I know I can do an amazing job, I just have to realize I am in a different position now and must remain the "helper" not the one in need of support.