I gained much knowledge at Family Services of the Piedmont as an intern while obtaining my Associates degree in Human Services specializing in substance abuse. I enjoyed facilitating substance abuse and co-facilitating dual diagnosis groups at Family Services of the Piedmont under supervision of the therapist. I learned how to use the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) manual, research evidence-based interventions relevant to client’s stage of change. On a multicultural perspective, I learned how to use interventions with a diverse population. I worked closely with both of my supervisors in Greensboro and High Point.

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     When I entered the BSW program an North Carolina Agricultural & State University I never thought I would work with people experiencing homelessness. However, this is where I began to grow a passion for serving this population. I learned people who experience homelessness have so many barriers and challenges to make it through one day. I as a social worker learned how to navigate many systems to get as much assistance as possible for each person served. I worked with an integrated team of nurses who had much medical and personal gained knowledge I learned how to use with clients.  I also filed Medicaid fraud for an agency that was possibly taking advantage of an already oppressed population. I grew to learn the difficulties and resilience this population has and look forward to serving this population in the near future.

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     As an advanced standing JMSW intern, in my graduate internship I was placed at an opioid medication detox assistance program that uses Suboxone, Subutex, and Zubsolv. I facilitated weekly groups with clients to help them maintain recovery during their stabilization, maintenance, and continuing care process as well as addressing mental disorder issues. I also assessed using the ASAM and DSM-V during the Bio-psycho-social assessment process and developed treatment plans with client pertaining to their current stage of change. I am gaining many clinical skills, such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, treatment team meetings, and building relationships with clients.

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     My experiences with people experiencing homelessness and people who have substance use disorder and mental disorders have helped me to identify that I am certainly working with the right populations.