Disability and Career Specialist
I find great joy in seeing individuals finding their direction and making the connection between what they are learning and how it will help them to develop a fulfilling life. I have a particular affinity for seeing individuals overcome significant challenges to live up to their fullest potential. This is a reflection of one of my greatest values - being of service to others. Often a picture of quiet contemplation, I am both a fervent researcher of disablity and career related topics and a content and people oriented listener.
Education/TrainingAs I began to find my way in this world, my journey included attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill from which I obtained a bachelor’s degree in psychology. After experiencing the world of work and through further contemplation, I later completed a dual master’s degree program in Rehabilitation Counseling and Substance Abuse/Clinical Counseling at East Carolina University as well as a graduate certificate in Vocational Evaluation.
Professional Certification/LicensureAs a means of both demonstrating my skills and abilities and to display my commitment to the field, since graduate school I have completed training for career development facilitator (CDF), earned national certification in rehabilitation counseling (CRC), and obtained state licensure and certification as a clinical addictions specialist (LCAS and AADC).
|
ExperienceAfter undergrad, I worked in various capacities within the human service field for a few years before I decided to return to school to obtain my master’s degrees in counseling to focus more pointedly on my interests and devote my energies to the provision of assistance and guidance in resolving personal, social, psychological or developmental problems and difficulties.
As I reflected on this endeavor, I recalled in high school how many of my classmates would come to me with their issues to discuss them and how much I enjoyed helping them - a clue I completely missed when deciding what direction I wanted to pursue after high school. I have worked in disability and career focused counseling and assessment for the past 13 years, primarily concentrating on individuals in adolescence and early adulthood. Additionally, I have another six years of experience in providing services to persons with disabilities including case management, residential services and habilitation programming. These experiences include working with individuals with mental health, substance abuse and developmental disabilities ranging from mild to severe in nature. I serve on the advisory council for Putnam Career and Technical Center and on the board for the NC VEWAA/VECAP association. Recently, I was appointed to a second three year term on the WV State Rehabilitation Council by Governor Jim Justice. As a member of the council, I review, analyze and advise the Division of Rehabilitation Services regarding their performance as well as assisting with the preparation of their State Plan, the Strategic Plan and reports and evaluations required under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act. |
|