A seasoned social worker with 40+ years of experience in long term care, hospital and on going clinical care. capable and strong communication skills, both written and oral. Councillor helping clients achieve solutions to problems and issues, strong team member with advanced collaborative and integrative skill sets, comfortable with working with a multi-disciplinary client team to advance care plans and strategies to measure outcomes. My calm and compassionate nature helps to inspire confidence and relaxation in clients which is a good platform to begin the essential healing for people seeking help.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
Work History
Social Worker (clinical)
Northwoodcare Inc.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
08.1985 - 07.2024
Provided direct clinical social work services to individuals and families in a mental health setting.
Developed individualized service plans with clients to address their identified goals. Coordination of admission process from point of the Provincial Single Entry System, greeting and assisting clients and families in their new journey into Long care helping to alleviate the trauma.
Facilitated group therapy sessions for clients with similar issues or experiences.
Worked collaboratively with other professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and nurses to coordinate care for clients.
Educated clients about the impact of trauma on mental health and well-being.
Provided crisis intervention services for clients experiencing acute distress.
Assisted clients in accessing community resources such as alternative housing, or other issues related to discharge planning.
Collaborated with family members to provide comprehensive support services to clients.
Maintained accurate records of client progress and interactions.
Attended team meetings and provided feedback on case updates and treatment recommendations.
Participated in professional development activities such as seminars, workshops, trainings.
Provided supportive counseling services as needed.
Coordinated referrals to outside agencies for additional services such as substance abuse programs.
Actively advocated for systemic change within organizations that serve vulnerable populations.
Utilized online charting to keep accurate records.
Implemented social service interventions to address client needs.
Maintained lists of resources helpful to clients.
Engaged in community outreach and program development to support patient and caregiver needs.
Interviewed clients individually and in family groups to determine services to best address specific needs.
Developed workable solutions for recurring problems for individuals and families.
Referred patients to community resources for mental health treatment, gambling, and substance abuse addictions.
Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to assist clients' individual needs.
Administered conflict resolution strategies to help families resolve disputes.
Counseled and prepared residents for transition to independent living.
Offered grief and bereavement counseling to support family members after the death of loved ones.
Visited clients at residences to assess their need and fit for Long Term Care, and determine the appropriate level of care.
Led family therapy sessions between adult children and siblings to remediate conflict and assist in building workable, healthier relationships.
Medical Social Worker
QE2 hospital and Nova Scotia Rehabilitation Centre
Halifax, Nova Scotia
07.1983 - 07.1985
Provided psychosocial assessments to patients and their families.
Facilitated referrals to community resources, such as housing or financial assistance programs.
Assisted physicians in determining the best course of action for medically complex cases.
Coordinated discharge planning services, including arranging transportation and home care assistance after hospitalization.
Maintained detailed records regarding patient progress.
Provided crisis intervention services when needed, such as suicide risk and intervention or substance abuse counseling.
Advised patients and their families on available options for long-term care placement facilities or hospice services.
Assessed client's strengths and weaknesses in order to identify areas that need improvement or further development.
Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient needs and plan appropriate interventions.
Acted as an advocate for vulnerable populations by connecting them with essential resources within the community.
Initiated contact with local agencies and organizations to ensure access to quality healthcare services.
Established relationships with external providers who could provide additional support when necessary.
Facilitated support groups for those coping with terminal illnesses or dealing with bereavement issues.
Coordinated psychosocial assessments, treatment plans and progress notes.
Education
Master of Education - Continuing Education
Dalhousie University
Halifax, NS
05-1993
Bachelor of Social Work - Social Work
Maritime School of Social Work (Dalhousie Univ.)
Halifax, NS
Certificate Programs Post Degree - Counseling Levels 1-3
Maritime School of Social Work
Halifax, NS
Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and interactions
Mindful skills in effective Solution Focused therapy and relevant coursework
Effective one-on-one counseling
Excellent practical problem solving skills
Timeline
Social Worker (clinical)
Northwoodcare Inc.
08.1985 - 07.2024
Medical Social Worker
QE2 hospital and Nova Scotia Rehabilitation Centre
07.1983 - 07.1985
Master of Education - Continuing Education
Dalhousie University
Bachelor of Social Work - Social Work
Maritime School of Social Work (Dalhousie Univ.)
Certificate Programs Post Degree - Counseling Levels 1-3
Maritime School of Social Work
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