Matthew Maldonado
Whittier
Summary
Graduate-level Marriage and Family Therapy student with a strong foundation in counseling theories, ethical practice, and client engagement, pursuing advancement to practicum at Hope International University. Brings experience supporting children with autism in educational settings, collaborating with school psychologists, and implementing individualized behavioral interventions. Skilled in data collection, de-escalation strategies, and adapting interventions to meet diverse cultural and developmental needs. Dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment for clients and colleagues.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Behavior Interventionist
School Setting
01.2022 - Current
- Provide individualized behavioral support for children with autism in educational settings, implementing IEPs and ABA strategies.
- Collaborate with school psychologists, teachers, and parents to promote academic, social, and emotional development.
- Collect and analyze behavioral data to inform intervention strategies.
- Apply de-escalation techniques and positive reinforcement to encourage skill acquisition.
- Adapt intervention approaches to meet cultural and developmental needs of students.
Sales Associate
Hobby Lobby
01.2018 - 01.2023
- Assisted a diverse customer base, strengthening communication and interpersonal skills applicable to client interactions.
- Collaborated with team members to manage store operations, demonstrating teamwork and adaptability.
- Resolved customer concerns with empathy and problem-solving strategies, often de-escalating tense situations.
- Maintained organizational systems under high-demand conditions, balancing multiple priorities while ensuring quality service.
Security Ministry Member
Morning Star Church
2025 - Current
- Monitor facility safety during services and events, ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for congregants.
- Respond to crises with calm, effective communication and rapid problem-solving.
- Coordinate with team members to support crowd flow and assist vulnerable individuals.
- Demonstrate situational awareness and discretion in handling sensitive security matters.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach, CA01.2023
Master of Arts - Marriage and Family Therapy
Hope International University
Fullerton, CA01.2026
Skills
- Knowledge of Structural Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy frameworks
- Experience implementing behavior intervention plans, collecting data, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams
- Developing skills in rapport building and client engagement through supervised client simulations and direct student support
- Familiar with BBS laws and CAMFT ethical guidelines
Affiliations
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) – Student Member
Certification
- Mandated Reporter Certification – California
- CPI Certified – Crisis Prevention Institute
- De-escalation Strategies Training (informal, on-the-job)
Timeline
Behavior Interventionist
School Setting
01.2022 - Current
Sales Associate
Hobby Lobby
01.2018 - 01.2023
Master of Arts - Marriage and Family Therapy
Hope International University
Security Ministry Member
Morning Star Church
2025 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
California State University, Long Beach
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