Professional Resume and Portfolio of Stepfanie T. Malone, Exams of Psychology

Download Professional Resume and Portfolio of Stepfanie T. Malone and more Exams Psychology in PDF only on Docsity! AU PSYC 432 ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY RUNNING HEAD PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 2024-2025 NEW UPDATE ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY Professional Portfolio PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 2 As I reach the end of my journey to my bachelor’s degree in Psychology, I feel overwhelmed, although I imagined I could accomplish such a goal it just didn’t feel attainable. I was once in a dark place in my life and sometimes still am. You see life has not always been good to me. I have survived more than the normal trials and tribulations that most people endure. As a child, my brother and I was abused as children. I wanted to be loved and although I did not have any interest in boys, I met one and had my first child at 16. When you hear your entire life that you would never amount to nothing sometime make some children want to prove their abusive parent wrong. My mom called Protective Services and informed them that I was crazy. The social workers never suggested therapy nor did any adult involved in saving my brother and I from abuse. I lived as a frightened child posing as an adult, producing babies, and making rash decisions based on my emotions. Control was paramount to me because without it I felt like the powerless child I once was. Eventually my life folded and I could no longer go on as I was. Not for me and especially not for my children because the man who I thought loved me, married me, and had given me 4 children was also abusive. I worked have worked with pregnant teenagers and also with adults with mental disorders. At the age of 43, I am finally figuring out who I was and getting rid of the baggage that I have carried since the age of 6. I knew that I wanted to help people and eventually become a licensed therapist to help others with issues. After receiving my bachelor’s degree, I plan on attending graduate school (Loyola College) and obtain my Psy or PhD one day. My personal statement is through it all I have survived and that is better than I imagined and If I survived Andrew (my ex-husband) I can survive anything. PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 5 January 2015-March 2016 Store Service Advisor Ikea, Inc. Baltimore, Maryland, USA Duties Included: Accept incoming calls from customers and resolve their issues by collecting pertinent information, informing customer of options and finding an acceptable solution. Provide customers with a forum to express their concerns and react in a professional and empathetic manner. Use available resources to educate yourself on products, services and customer interaction techniques to assist customers. Assume responsibility for other tasks and projects as assigned; trained new team members, ensuring all staff is properly prepared for the shift; Implemented safety conducts, provided daily ‘crew meetings’ to discuss the daily goals and how to be prepared; managed budgets and inventory; entered and received all call orders from vendors. Maintained inventory by checking products to determine inventory levels and anticipating customer demand. Promoted sales by demonstrating merchandise and products to customers; Helped customers by providing information, answered questions, obtained food requested; pperform all the duties of the customer services representatives; greeting customers and taking orders with a smile; operating the cash register and collecting payment from customers; delivering product by vehicle from the store. May 2013- January 2015 Materials Handler Kohl’s, Inc. Edgewood, Maryland USA Duties Included: Loading and unloading merchandise, picking, packing, and merging customer orders. Verifying accuracy of production or locations, setting or assigning location of products manually, computer, or RF functions to enter data in systems. Effectively responding to questions and requests from customers; Unloading incoming truck freight and replenishing the floor; Performing duties as assigned, examples may include, but are not limited to price changes, warehouse floor and section maintenance, housekeeping duties, preparation and taking of inventory, and stock room organization. Loaded and unloaded trucks received raw materials and products. Extensive experience in picking, packing, wrapping, labeling and/or shipping products; Maintained shipping and receiving logs and made sure that incoming and outgoing products and material are in good condition. Utilized skills to transport merchandise and materials to the production areas and maintains the cleanliness, organization, and safety of the warehouse. March 2010 – May 2013 Department Manager Walmart, Inc. Aberdeen, Maryland USA Duties Included: Completed payments and controls expenses by receiving, processing, verifying, and recording invoices. Price changes, order out of stock merchandise not manually ordered by the system, created features, train new employees, mad hand on changes, set new mods. Maintain clean department, change on hand to maximize exceptions, complete 5-week bin report, pull deleted/inactive/NRPL items out to put on clearance and Merchandised. Ensured that each customer receives outstanding service by providing a guest friendly environment. Maintained outstanding standards by greeting and acknowledging guests, possesses solid product knowledge and all other components of guest service; Continued an awareness of all promotions and advertisements; Ensured all merchandise is presented within company standards. Ability to PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 6 move freight and other products efficiently from back/ storage onto sales floor; Possesses competency in computerized systems and store operational machinery; accurately and efficiently operates cash register systems and functions. Resolved guest service issues, including refunds and questions, and communicate guest requests to team leaders as necessary. Supported team- oriented environment of team leaders by monitoring team member performance and assisting in the training of new team members. Maintained orderly appearance of work area; supervised sales associate’s reconciliation of daily sales; assumes all other responsibilities as determined by senior staff component. October 2004 – March 2010 Office Assistant Today’s Staffing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA Duties Included: Responsible for the daily administrative duties of the office. Produced information by transcribing, formatting, inputting, editing, retrieving, copying, and transmitting text, data, and graphics. Organized work by reading and routing correspondence; collecting information; initiating telecommunications. Maintained department schedule by maintaining calendars for department personnel; arranging meetings, conferences, teleconferences, and travel as applicable. Completed requests by greetings, in person or on the telephone; answering or referring inquiries. Maintained customer confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential. Prepared reports by collecting information. Maintained office supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies. Provided historical reference by utilizing filing and retrieval systems. Maintained technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reading secretarial publications. Contributed to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed. EDUCATION: University of Maryland University College, Adelphi, Maryland USA Diploma: Bachelor of Science, Expected graduation 2019 Credits Earned: Semester Hours Major: Psychology University of Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona USA Diploma: Associate of Science, 2015 Credits Earned: Semester Hours Major: Psychology Sojourner-Douglass College, Baltimore, Maryland USA Diploma: Associate of Science, 1995 Credits Earned : Semester Hours Major: Business Administration PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 7 When I think about the first program goal of psychology, “Apply major concepts, theoret- ical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology to prepare for graduate studies or careers in which psychological training is relevant” ("Online Psychology Bachelor's Degree (UMUC," n.d.), I think of cognitive psychology. One of the major concepts in psychol- ogy is the cognitive perspective where the explanation for behavior is based on aspects like per- ception, attention, language, and memory. With this in mind the first thing that I think of is the cognitive aspect. However, throughout the course I began to doubt the validity of the victim be- cause it seemed so counter-intuitive and outside the realm of possibility Schaub (2016) stated, “The brain contains many pieces and components that allow a person to do many fascinating things, but the most applicable parts of the brain in reference to talking about trauma is the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex allows a person to be able to focus on mul- tiple things at one time, recall memory, and prioritize function of the brain based on the tasks in front of you. The Amygdala is the other important part of the brain, it’s responsible for the per- ception of emotions such as anger, fear, and sadness, as well as the controlling of aggression. The amygdala helps to store memories of events and emotions so that an individual may be able to recognize similar events in the future. When a person goes through abuse the first thing that happens is that the amygdala takes over and the functioning of the prefrontal cortex shuts down. Now thinking about what that actually means, your about to focus, think logically, and recall memory is shut off; this is the basic principle of the fight, flight, or freeze response” (p. 5). Once I understood how the brain responds to trauma and the importance of focusing on the peripheral details. The first interview of an abused victim after the course really gave me that feeling of redemption. The second program goal of psychology is “Apply basic knowledge of re- search methodology, statistics, measurement, guidelines, ethical standards, laws, and regulations PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 10 Ms. Malone has successfully completed the stages of our comprehensive counseling psychology program. In fact, she has adapted the Psychodynamic Theory developed by Sigmund Freud as the theoretical approach. This is the approach that she incorporates the most during her client interaction. She has come to identify on a higher aptitude with this theory because of the way that the theory focuses on the unconscious. She has grown fond on the way that the individual client is oblivious of the component of their mind. Although, it still demonstrates through behavior. This particular approach works for her because of the client’s ability to verbalize completely what appears in their mentality without being deprived of censorship. She has used this throughout her practicum without prejudice. She has been introduced into therapeutic techniques that she has incorporated into practice with her clients. The therapeutic techniques that she has incorporated into her practice was behavior therapy, psychoanalysis, and psychodynamic therapy techniques. Ms. Malone frequently utilized psychoanalysis and psychodynamic into her client interactions. With one of her clients she utilized these techniques to concentrate on altering the difficult behaviors, approaches, and considerations by determining their unconscious significance and provocations. She established a devoted and rigorous working affiliation between her client and herself. She had a client who had problems with a childhood experience where her parents abandoned her and left her with relatives for eight years. Then gained custody of her later and tried to re-establish a relationship with her. The client was seventeen when she reunited with her parents. When this happened, she had faced abandonment issues. Ms. Malone counseled the client and got her through the abandonment issues that she was facing. She conducted her sessions with this client by getting her to discover herself by addressing her emotional concerns. This was established by Stepfanie permitting her client to express themselves unreservedly and sporadically interpolating her thoughts and interpretations of her childhood. By this the client was able to overcome her childhood difficulties and challenges that she faced through her childhood and into adolescence. She was then able to overcome her abandonment issues that she faced. From this she was able to establish healthy relationships. As well as, establish a healthy relationship with her partner and develop a healthy relationship with her parents. In addition to, assisting her into establishing a nourishing and healthy relationship with her own children. PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO Ez University of Maryland University College 11 PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 12 Although, Stepfanie has been a very proficient and elevated student. She has successfully completed her doctoral degree with distinguish though, she has also had some difficulties along the way. During her initial counseling sessions with her clients she faced issues concerning her own personal beliefs counteracting with the problems that her client was facing. Her client was a twenty-two-year-old professional dancer who has having a relationship with a married man. During her relationship with this man she got pregnant and her client was faced with the challenge of deciding whether to keep her baby or having an abortion. The married individual did not want her to keep the baby because he did not want to keep the baby. She did not want to explore the idea of having the baby and placing it up for adoption. She is a practicing catholic, so she does not believe in adultery, having relations with married individuals, or abortions. So, she had a very difficult time with this individual’s problem. She had to put her own personal ideas and opinions to the side to help her client solve the difficulties that she was facing. In addition to, facing an ethical predicament with one of her clients that she received a gift from. Once, she accepted a gift from one of her male clients het then began trying to establish a personal relationship with her. From this he began personal interaction with her including calling and texting her personal phone as well as showing up to her personal residence. In which he should not have had access to any of this information that she divulged to this client. This then put a strain on her client/patient relationship because she wanted to continue to assist him with his sessions. Although, his feelings for her would not allow her to continue with his counseling sessions. So, she had to refer him to another counselor to aid him with his sessions. This was the only ethical concern that she has had thus far. We had to reiterate the APA’s ethics with her again to help her understand that her behavior in that situation was not professional. Although she has had some difficulties throughout her time here. She is a very operational counselor and possesses great attributes that will assist her throughout her professional career. She is very empathetic towards her clients. She possesses great communication skills and has been one of the most accepting of individuals without bias. She has great problem-solving skills and works very hard to help her clients solve their challenges. She showcases self-awareness and multicultural competency which is needed when working with those of other cultures. Stepfanie has overall great features that someone would truly consider in finding a great counselor. I would definitely recommend her to anyone who came to seek a great professional counselor. I believe that she would make a great asset to your organization. Sincerely, PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 15 A counseling Psychologist deal with patients with problems in the home, jobs, and communities (McLeod, 2012). They identify the strengths and resources they can use to help deal with their problems (McLeod, 2012). These can include mental health, marriage, substance abuse, and behavioral disorder counselors. They can provide treatment for many different problems to include anxiety, depression, stress, and suicide. When it comes to marriage and family they can evaluate and treat for substance abuse, stress, and other issues in dealing with family and marriage. They can work in hospitals, government facilities, mental health clinics, and family services (APA, 2019). Along with social workers and family therapists. Metropolitan areas have the higher employment rate, and salary ranges from $30,000 - $80,000 annually depending on your educational level and location. Entry level education is a master’s degree, on the job training internship, and residency. In order to work as a counselor or therapist you must be licensed in the state which you are treating patients. There is also an exam that must be done along with annual continuing education. Depending on the specialty mental health and family counselors have anywhere from 19-20 % growth in the next ten years (APA, 2019) Clinical Psychologist Clinical psychologists evaluate, detect, and treat emotional, mental and behavior disorders. This sounds much like counseling psychologists, but clinical psychologist is trained differently and can give diagnostic tests and give individual to multiple people psychotherapy (McLeod, 2012). These psychologists can focus on a certain group of people and specialties. Health and Neuropsychologists are two of the specialties. Much like they sound they can focus PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 16 on determining health issues or disorders dealing with the brain. There are stipulations only a few states allow clinical psychologists to prescribe medications. Like many of the others the environment is schools, hospitals, family services, and government. When it comes to salary one can expect anywhere from $70,000 a year and up. Most Clinical Psychologist require a PhD or doctrine and do an internship under the supervision of a professional. Clinical Psychologist is increasing by 20 % growth over the next ten years (APA, 2019). Some may have a master’s degree or doctoral degree as well. So, having both education and psychology is key in obtaining this position. This position has a twenty percent increase much like the others in the next ten years give them ways to help them. This job can be located at schools, on the field, and in health care facilities. One can expect to earn $60-$80,000 a year [ CITATION Ame165 \l 1033 ]. Opportunities for jobs are more likely with an 3023advanced degree and like the others there is about a 20% increase in the next ten years in this field as well. Research Methods in Clinical/Counseling Psychology Quantitative research can be used in response to relational questions of variables within the research. Quantitative researchers seek explanations and predictions that will generate to other persons and places. The intent is to establish, confirm, or validate relationships and to develop generalizations that contribute to theory. Quantitative research begins with a problem statement and involves the formation of a hypothesis, a literature review, and a quantitative data analysis. Creswell (2003) states, quantitative research “employ strategies of inquiry such as experimental and surveys and collect data on predetermined instruments that yield statistical PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 17 data. The findings from quantitative research can be predictive, explanatory, and confirming. Qualitative data collection can take many forms, including oral self-report (e.g., interviews) or written self-report (web-based interviews). Although phenomenological data are most commonly collected in the form of real-time interviews, some phenomenological studies forgo interviews and use other data sources, such as documents, observations, or poems (Creswell, 2013). where the research findings are not arrived at by statistical or other quantitative procedures. Quantitative psychological research is where the research findings result from mathematical modeling and statistical estimation or statistical inference. Since qualitative information can be handled as such statistically, the distinction relates to method, rather than the topic studied. The prime method of inquiry in science is the experiment. The key features are control over variables, careful measurement, and establishing cause and effect relationships. experiment is an investigation in which a hypothesis is scientifically tested. In an experiment, an independent variable (the cause) is manipulated and the dependent variable (the effect) is measured; any extraneous variables are controlled. An advantage is that experiments should be objective. The views and opinions of the researcher should not affect the results of a study. This is good as it makes the data more valid, and less bias (simplypsychology.org). Empirical Studies Empirical research is the process of testing a hypothesis using experimentation, direct or indirect observation and experience. This type of research is important for psychologists primarily because it is founded on the scientific method. These studies are based on observed and measured phenomena and derives knowledge from actual experience. Empirical Research is a PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 20 Retrieved May 2, 2019 from Psychology in Action Creswell, J. W. (1994). Research design: Qualitative and quantitative approaches. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications. McLeod, S. A. (2012, Jan 14) Experimental method. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/experimental-method.html Statement of Goals My reasoning for applying to this program is to expand my knowledge of the alcohol and substance abuse field. It is imperative that I continue to grow as a clinician. I am currently a PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 21 Counselor Mosaic Community services, and I plan to continue in this field. I realize the importance of obtaining this knowledge so I can assist my clients who are mentally ill. I have four years of experience working in this field. My view on education is that it is vital for growth in any field. Alcohol and substance abuse issues are paramount to addiction. I have trained under one of the best Licensed Clinical Social Workers who is an alumnus of your school. The values that were instilled in her have given me a desire to follow her footsteps. I am a hardworking and dedicated student. I intend to work just as hard at your school by applying all of my previous education skills. I know that with your school’s reputation and my hard work ethic I will be able to accomplish my goals. I strive to make a difference in my community wherever I can. I donate regularly to Enoch Pratt Library, McVets, and Purple. I know with my Psy or PhD in Psychology, I can continue to make a difference and achieve my goal of becoming Professional Therapist. I would really like to be admitted to your program. PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 22 April 5, 2019 To Loyola College: I am pleased to write a letter of recommendation for Stepfanie T Malone, a very dedicated and hardworking individual. I have known Stepfanie for more than three years. I came to know her when she started working as a counselor. I trained her in the basics of the position and had the opportunity to watch her flourish, not only as an employee, but as a student, a mother, and a friend. It is on the basis of these characteristics that I write a letter of unequivocal support. Stepfanie has worked incredibly hard throughout her time as an undergraduate student and has continued to reach the goals she has set for herself. Stepfanie has been successful in completing her degree requirements and seeks to enroll in your graduate program. Stepfanie is a passionate, lively, and exceptionally well-organized student. Not only does she demonstrate skills of reading and writing, but also possesses a great understanding of diversity and cultural competency. Stepfanie is a rare find. She is devoted, motivated, tolerant, and self-effacing. I believe she will be successful at your graduate program and will be a dedicated student and a competent professional. I recommend her very highly and without reservation. Sincerely, Nicoma Nordine, PhD PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 25 PROFESSIONAL PLANNING PORTFOLIO 26