Twila MacDonald
Bedford,NS
Summary
Motivated Social Work student with comprehensive knowledge of social justice issues and systems affecting marginalized communities. Passionate about developing and facilitating programs to support communities in need. Collaborative and analytical advocate builds strategic partnerships, advocate for clients, and advance change for communities in need.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Social Work Practicum Student
Department of Community Services
04.2024 - Current
- Enhanced client wellbeing by implementing personalized care plans and monitoring progress.
- Documented client progress in accordance with agency policies and procedures.
- Assisted clients in identifying community resources and connecting with appropriate services.
- Assisted clients in navigating the legal system, attending court hearings as needed and providing support throughout the process
- Maintained accurate case documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and facilitating informed decision-making by team members
- Conducted home visits to assess family dynamics, providing guidance on effective communication strategies and conflict resolution techniques
INCOME ASSISTANCE CASEWORKER
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES
02.2022 - Current
- Completed intake and annual reviews with clients
- Referrals to community resources
- Client advocacy
- Developed budgets and special needs requests
- Conducted thorough assessments to determine client eligibility for various programs and services
- Established trusting relationships with clients, fostering open communication and rapport building
WOMEN'S SUPPORT COUNSELOR
THIRD PLACE TRANSITION HOUSE
05.2020 - Current
- Conducted assessments to evaluate client progress and adapt treatment plans accordingly for optimal outcomes
- Established trust-filled relationships with clients by maintaining confidentiality and respecting personal boundaries
- Developed and expanded referral system of service providers to assist clients in attaining services
- Assessed clients' needs to provide appropriate therapeutic interventions
FAMILY COUNSELOR
ALICE HOUSE
10.2021 - 02.2022
- Developed strong rapport with diverse client populations, demonstrating cultural sensitivity in all interactions
- Improved family dynamics by conducting regular counseling sessions and implementing evidence-based therapeutic techniques
- Maintained detailed case notes and documentation in compliance with ethical standards and confidentiality requirements
- Facilitated group therapy sessions to encourage mutual support and shared learning among families facing similar issues
- Served as an advocate for clients within the community, coordinating resources and referrals to support their goals effectively
Education
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK -
DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY
HALIFAX, NS08.2024
Bachelor of Arts - WOMEN'S STUDIES
MOUNT SAINT VINCENT UNIVERSITY
HALIFAX, NS04.2021
YOUTH CARE WORKER DIPLOMA -
DR JANE NORMAN COLLEGE
TRURO, NS06.2014
Skills
- Comprehensive experience supporting at risk children, youth, and families in crisis
- Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication
- Knowledge of effective interventions
- Passion for Social Work
- Ability to work within a team environment
- Client Advocacy
- Professional ethics
- Case records management
- Community resource knowledge
- Team Collaboration
- Professionalism
- Trauma Informed Care
Certification
- Mental Health First Aid
- Standard First Aid/CPR "C"/AED
- Gender Based Analysis Plus certification
- Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS) training
- Jacqueline Campbell Danger Assessment (JCDA) certification
Volunteer Experience
- The Lotus Center, Volunteer Board Director 2018- Present
- United Way of Colchester, Board of Directors. 2021-2022
- Minister's Engagement Table, Member, Early Learning and Child care transformation 2022
- Dalhousie Student Union Association. Association of Black Social Workers Representative 2023-2024
- Council on African Canadian Education. Member-At-Large. 2024 to Present
Timeline
Social Work Practicum Student
Department of Community Services
04.2024 - Current
INCOME ASSISTANCE CASEWORKER
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES
02.2022 - Current
FAMILY COUNSELOR
ALICE HOUSE
10.2021 - 02.2022
WOMEN'S SUPPORT COUNSELOR
THIRD PLACE TRANSITION HOUSE
05.2020 - Current
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK -
DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Arts - WOMEN'S STUDIES
MOUNT SAINT VINCENT UNIVERSITY
YOUTH CARE WORKER DIPLOMA -
DR JANE NORMAN COLLEGE
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