Role Play Video

May 2015 - Dallas Residency - SFBT Counseling Session

In this link you will be able to see a video of me conducting a "mock" case study at my recent residency in Dallas Texas in May 2015. I was required to choose a theoretical approach to apply. I selected the Solution Focused Brief Therapy approach and was presented with a same sex couple whom entered counseling after one of the partners recent decision to leave her financial assets to her parents in her will. Her partner was not in agreement with this decision. Peers from residency posed as a reflecting team and provided insights midway through the session.

 

Academic Papers presenting Miscellaneous Populations and Approaches

Mothers Uplifting Mothers - A Group Counseling Presentation

My group counseling class required me to create and conduct a support group and I greatly enjoyed the experience. MUM is a social and emotional support group for mothers from every walk of life and all cultural backgrounds. Here you can see the power point presentation for the purposes behind the creation and necessity of the group. a group meeting breakdown is also presented along with the benefits of such a group for the individual participants.

The Effects of Bullying in LGBT Adolescents  

This paper discusses different aspects and effects of bullying in adolescents with an emphasis on the specific challenges for LGBT youth. Discussion on the concerns of Cyberbullying into the lives of adolescents and it’s connection to traditional bullying are presented. Online support will be discussed along with an exploration of multicultural and ethnic considerations. A literature review of previous studies conducted and suggestions will also be made for future research and professional practice. 

Couple's Case Study - Solution Focused Therapy Approach 

In this paper, I provide a description of the SFBT Model and apply it to a couple’s case study. I also explore interventions as well as ethical considerations when working with this couple. 

Margarita: A Case Study Applying the Reality Therapy Approach  

This paper discusses a brief development history of the Reality therapy approach and also how it lends itself to the positive psychology movement. Evidence based support and the application towards working with a diverse population is also examined. The approach is applied to a theoretical case study discussing case goals, strengths and limitations. 

Addiction Treatment Plan 

A paper discussing a hypothetical case study with a 60-year-old Mexican American male client requiring an assessment of Addiction and Co-occuring Disorders. Diagnosis and challenges are discussed along with a proposed treatment plan. 

 

Academic Papers Focused on Family Systems Presented in the Cinema

Marriage and Family Systems Project - Buckman/Huffner Family 

The following paper will be focused on one particular subset of the family presented in the movie Parenthood, Susan and Nathan. A family genogram is discussed while specific life cycle transitions and an exploration of the family’s’ strengths and weaknesses will be assessed. A comparison of two possible family therapy models, Solution Focused and Narrative, will also be presented as well as the reasons why they would be beneficial in addressing Susan and Nathan’s presenting issues. Finally, a treatment plan using Solution Focused Therapy approach is presented and I share some personal reflections. 

Demonstrating a Systemic Approach- The Berkman Family 

An examination of the characters in the film The Squid and the Whale written and directed by Noah Baumbach. The paper explores specific developmental issues and familial counseling considerations in order to assess the family for therapy. A family genogram will be observed along with risk assessments and possible ethical considerations in working with minors. Presentation of the family strengths and weaknesses and application of the Solution Focused Brief Therapy approach are presented. DSM-5 diagnosis options as well as a look into possible treatment goals and interventions for the family are examined before a brief reflection on how my personal background could affect working with this particular family.