Leland, North Carolina, United States
I started out as a help for the summer clinics and was quickly brought onto the staff as a belayer. I worked my way up to be one of the two Young Aspiring Class Instructors and Summer Clinic Instructors. Over the summer of 2022, I have been trained to work the front desk, navigate rock gym pro, open and close the gym, and route set. Aug 2021 - May 2023 & Jan 2025 - PRESENT
In this dual role, I provide comprehensive behavioral support and consultation within a residential treatment and educational setting, working closely with youth who present with a variety of emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. My work is grounded in the evidence-based Teaching-Family Model (TFM), which emphasizes proactive skill-building, positive reinforcement, and trauma-informed care. Core Responsibilities: • Crisis Intervention & De-Escalation: I lead real-time crisis management efforts, employing trauma-sensitive and relationship-based strategies to de-escalate high-stress situations. My approach prioritizes safety, emotional regulation, and the preservation of therapeutic rapport with youth. • Behavioral Assessment & Investigation: I conduct in-depth behavioral investigations to determine root causes of maladaptive behaviors. This includes data collection, analysis of environmental and interpersonal factors, and the development of individualized intervention strategies. • Skill Development Using the Teaching-Family Model: I provide direct instruction and coaching to youth in key life and social skills, using structured TFM teaching procedures such as praise, effective feedback, and corrective teaching. These interventions are designed to address specific skill deficits and promote long-term behavioral change. • Staff Training & Consultation: I consult with teachers, direct care staff, and program leadership to ensure effective implementation of the Teaching-Family Model across settings. This includes modeling interventions, offering real-time feedback, and facilitating training on best practices in behavioral support. • Collaboration & Advocacy: I work as part of a multidisciplinary team to coordinate care, advocate for youth needs, and ensure continuity of behavioral strategies across educational and residential environments.