Dynamic Rehabilitation Counselor with extensive experience at the NC Department of Employment and Independence, adept at client advocacy and rehabilitation planning. Proven track record in job placement assistance and staff management, successfully guiding individuals with disabilities to achieve their employment goals while fostering interdisciplinary teamwork and maintaining professional ethics.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Rehabilitation Counselor In Charge
NC Departmet of Employment and Independence for People With Disabilities
07.2010 - Current
I am responsible for the daily supervision and leadership to 4 counselors, 3 human service coordinators, 2 casework technicians and 2 vocational evaluator. I assists persons with disabilities, that are transitioning from school to work, to find suitable employment, receive training or assist with exploring post-secondary options. I accomplish this by overseeing staff that:
Evaluate diagnostic data to determine eligibility and needed services
Assisted clients in setting realistic goals for rehabilitation and supported them in achieving those goals through regular monitoring and encouragement
Coordinated referrals to community resources such as vocational training programs, job placement agencies, and support groups
Advocated for clients' rights by providing information about disability laws, accommodations, and accessibility options in various settings
Maintained accurate documentation of client progress notes, treatment plans, assessments results, and other relevant records in compliance with legal requirements
Participated in case conferences with colleagues to discuss complex cases and develop comprehensive strategies for client care
Collaborated with employers to identify reasonable workplace accommodations that would enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions effectively
Implemented evidence-based interventions aimed at improving self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall well-being of clients
Served as a liaison between clients, potential employers, vocational training centers, and other relevant stakeholders to facilitate successful job placements
I also directly:
Oversee programs that are designed to help the student explore careers, develop work skills, practice social skills and acquire a network of community supports while the student is in high school of post-secondary education.
Implemented evidence-based interventions aimed at improving self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall well-being of clients
Developed and delivered educational presentations to community organizations, schools, or businesses on topics related to disability awareness and inclusion
Conducted research on best practices in rehabilitation counseling, attended professional development workshops, and maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and advancements
Supervised staff reviewing case documentation, provided ongoing training for new and seasoned staff, provided guidance, feedback, and support in their professional growth and development
Participated in ongoing professional development activities including conferences, seminars, and webinars
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
NC Department of Employment and Independence for People With Disabilities
01.2005 - 07.2010
I assisted persons with disabilities, that were diagnosed as having a mental health disability, to find suitable employment. I accomplished this by:
Evaluating diagnostic data to determine eligibility for services
Assisted clients in setting realistic goals for rehabilitation and supported them in achieving those goals through regular monitoring and encouragement
Coordinated referrals to community resources such as vocational training programs, job placement agencies, and support groups
Advocated for clients' rights by providing information about disability laws, accommodations, and accessibility options in various settings
Maintained accurate documentation of client progress notes, treatment plans, assessments results, and other relevant records in compliance with legal requirements
Collaborated with employers to identify reasonable workplace accommodations that would enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions effectively
Implemented evidence-based interventions aimed at improving self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall well-being of clients
Counseled family members of individuals with disabilities, to address their concerns, foster understanding, and provide guidance on supporting the rehabilitation process
Served as a liaison between clients, potential employers, vocational training centers, and other relevant stakeholders to facilitate successful job placements
Developed and delivered educational presentations to community organizations, schools, or businesses on topics related to disability awareness and inclusion
Conducted research on best practices in rehabilitation counseling, attended professional development workshops, and maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and advancements
Education
Master of Arts - Rehabilitation Counseling
South Carolina State University
Orangeburg, SC
07-1998
Psychology
South Carolina State University
Orangeburg, SC
05-1995
Skills
Case management expertise
Career development planning
Professional ethics
Client advocacy
Job placement assistance
Rehabilitation planning
Staff management
Case management
Interdisciplinary teamwork
Teamwork and collaboration
Multitasking
Organizational skills
Timeline
Rehabilitation Counselor In Charge
NC Departmet of Employment and Independence for People With Disabilities
07.2010 - Current
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
NC Department of Employment and Independence for People With Disabilities
Administrative Assistant at Employment and Independence for People with DisabilitiesAdministrative Assistant at Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities
Community Health Coordinator at Center for Independence of Individuals with DisabilitiesCommunity Health Coordinator at Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities