Amber tells us how Simmons prepared her to be resident clinician of Boston's STARR Program.
What does your job entail?
I'm a residential clinician for the Boston Regional STARR (Stabilization, Assessment, and Rapid Reintegration) Program, a 45-day mental and behavioral health initiative for boys ages 12 to 18. It's run by the nonprofit agency, Communities for People. As the primary clinician at a six-bed residential site, I oversee psychiatric, neuropsychiatric, and medication evaluations for teens who have been placed at the center following a crisis or abuse/neglect intervention.
Working closely with the Department of Children and Families, I also provide individual and family counseling and develop treatment plans as well as progress reviews. Our mission is to help the boys get to the next step they need to succeed.
What brought you to Simmons?
After taking courses in social work as an undergraduate at Pepperdine University, I decided to pursue a master of social work, with the goal of working with youth and families. People in the field had great things to say about Simmons, and I liked the small, personal feel to the program.
How did Simmons prepare you?
I completed the Certificate in Trauma Practice, supplementing a solid foundation in social work theory with specialized coursework in neurocognitive science, crisis intervention with children and adolescents, and trauma treatment for children and families. Targeted field placements allowed me to apply my knowledge to challenging practice opportunities.
In my first year, I worked with students with emotional impairments, behavioral issues, and learning disabilities at a Boston public elementary school. For my second, I conducted individual and group therapy at the Home for Little Wanderers, which provides a wide range of services to children and families living in at-risk circumstances. Simmons helped me find my niche as a residential clinician. I felt extremely prepared to start my job.
Why is your job rewarding?
We help the boys realize they matter and teach them how to take power back into their lives and make changes. Even though they’re with us for a short time, we encourage them to explore what their futures can be.