Stacy Mears

Major: Child, Adult, and Family Services
Company/Organization: Stepping Stone Family Services
Company/Organization website: http://www.info@steppingstoneia.com
Destination: Des Moines
Timeframe: Spring
Advisor/Coordinator Email: enloe@iastate.edu

Responsibilities

As an intern it has been my responsibility to shadow counselors that are providing HAB and BHIS services. According to the Stepping Stone website "Counselors use interventions designed to improve the individual's level of functioning as it relates to a mental illness. These interventions may include: behavior management, relationship skills, communication skills, and problem solving skills. Counselor also provides family assistance, which includes education and support in coping with the individual's mental health symptoms and management of the individual's behaviors. BHIS services are initiated by an assessment done by a licensed therapist." HAB services provide more of a crutch within the community and counselor are someone that the client can utilize for resources and other needs within the community.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment from this experience has been landing a full-time job after I graduate. The internship has been a great match for me and I guess I have been a good fit for the position as well since they offered me a job after I graduate.

What advice would you give?

Take time for yourself to reflect on new experiences, lessons, things you may not like, things you do like, etc. I think time for reflection is important and can help you understand yourself better.

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