Miranda Saunders
1415 Pennsylvania Ave Pittsburgh
Summary
Passionate Drug and alcohol counselor dedicated to improving lives of individuals struggling with addiction and other behavioral disorders. Caring supporter of recovering patients with guidance toward tangible improvements and relapse prevention. Attentively implements treatment plans addressing unique clients needs and helps attain long-term behavioral goals.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Drug and Alcohol Intensive Outpatient Therapist
Devereux/TCV Community Services
02.2024 - Current
- Implemented a diverse range of therapeutic modalities to address clients'' varied needs and preferences, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy.
- Evaluated treatment progress by regularly reviewing client goals, adjusting therapeutic strategies as needed for optimal outcomes.
- Created a safe space for open dialogue during sessions that encouraged clients to share their experiences freely without fear of judgment or stigma.
- Conducted discharge planning in collaboration with clients and their support network to ensure smooth transitions back into the community posttreatment.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions for diverse clientele, promoting peer support and healthy coping mechanisms.
Drug and Alcohol Counselor
Salvation Army Harbor Light Center
05.2021 - Current
- Provided comprehensive case management services, created treatment plans, and connected clients and families to appropriate resources.
- Conducted substance abuse assessments and screenings to accurately identify client needs and appropriate levels of care required.
- Established strong rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds and demographics, fostering an atmosphere of trust for open communication during counseling sessions.
- Guided clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
- Facilitated group and individual therapy in outpatient setting.
Family Therapist
Pyramid Healthcare
03.2020 - 04.2020
- Conducted intake and needs assessments to set therapeutic goals and establish professional relationships with clients.
- Maintained accurate and thoroughly documented notes and client records in accordance with licensing standards.
- Conducted intake and assessments to formulate treatment plan and manage client records.
Behavior Specialist
InVisionHS
08.2019 - 03.2020
- Develops the Customized Support Plan (CSP) and quick sheet in conjunction with the support team and trains all direct support professionals on its use for the client
- Complete a Behavioral Specialist Supports Scale (BSSS) for each client supported as needed to assist in providing appropriate supports
- Develops additional resources, plans, and completes assessments to address identified needs of the person supported. This may include tools such as but not limited to: ◦ PRN Protocols, Communication Systems, ECS, Restrictive Procedure Plan and Refusal Plan
Mobile Therapist
WJS Psychological Associates
01.2019 - 07.2019
- Built solid and trusting rapport with children and families, fostering trust and communication to meet case needs
- Developed goal-oriented psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to improve clients’ level of functioning
- Provided comprehensive case management services, including creating treatment plans and connecting clients and families to appropriate resources
Family Based Mental Health Clinician
Pressley Ridge
03.2015 - 11.2018
- Provided family therapy families, using behavioral therapy techniques, solution-focused strategies and multi-systems approach
- Completed, submitted and verified accuracy of paperwork, including clinical and psychosocial initial assessments, treatment plans, therapy notes and other required documentation
- Documented discovered behavior patterns and relationship dynamics to inform accurate and effective treatment planning
Direct Care Worker
Pressley Ridge
07.2012 - 11.2018
- Recorded client information on special flow sheets, accurately indicating suicidal precautions, sleep flow and restraints
- Led summer day treatment groups and therapeutic activities to teach functional living skills and address behavioral issues
- Developed goal-oriented psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to improve clients' level of functioning
Family Therapist
The Academy Schools
12.2009 - 06.2012
- Monitored client census by using the Daily Movement Report and recording admissions, discharges, doctor appointments and site visit data
- Ran individual therapy and family therapy sessions for clients in their homes and also in the community
- Facilitated a smooth discharge by encouraging and reassuring clients throughout their transitions
Education
Master of Science - Psychology
Unversity Of Phoenix
Pittsburgh, PA2014
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Point Park University
Pittsburgh, PA2007
Skills
- Crisis intervention
- Adept at treatment and discharge planning
- Culturally sensitive
- Conflict resolution
- Case management
- Trauma-Informed Care
Timeline
Drug and Alcohol Intensive Outpatient Therapist
Devereux/TCV Community Services
02.2024 - Current
Drug and Alcohol Counselor
Salvation Army Harbor Light Center
05.2021 - Current
Family Therapist
Pyramid Healthcare
03.2020 - 04.2020
Behavior Specialist
InVisionHS
08.2019 - 03.2020
Mobile Therapist
WJS Psychological Associates
01.2019 - 07.2019
Family Based Mental Health Clinician
Pressley Ridge
03.2015 - 11.2018
Direct Care Worker
Pressley Ridge
07.2012 - 11.2018
Family Therapist
The Academy Schools
12.2009 - 06.2012
Master of Science - Psychology
Unversity Of Phoenix
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Point Park University
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