Q: What's a typical workday like for you?
I work with men who have drug and alcohol addictions on a 28-day inpatient unit. We do a thorough assessment and tailor an individual treatment plan for each patient. On a typical day, we start with a staff meeting with psychologists, other counselors and staff from spiritual care and the wellness department.
We review patients' progress and adjust their treatment plan accordingly. I run a series of men's issues groups that touch on topics such as shame and self-esteem. I also complete thorough documentation; make phone calls to outside professionals, and family members to let them know how their loved ones are doing.
Q:How does your role fit into the bigger healthcare picture?
I think I'm going to have a bigger role, especially in the light of the federal mental health parity legislation that recently passed. More people will have access to care, especially with the renewed commitment to healthcare.
Q:Who do you interact with during the course of the day?
I'm part of interdisciplinary team of psychologists, psychiatrists, wellness professionals, doctors and nurses, spiritual care professionals and clinical case managers for continuing care. I also interact with outside parties, including probation officers, social workers, attorneys and professional interventionists.
Q:Why did you become a chemical dependency counselor?
