As an individual that has spent his life seeking ways to be a positive influence on the lives of others, I am proud to be nearing the end of my time at the MSW program of the University of Missouri.  This program has prepared me to make an impact on not just the individual, but their support system, community, and the wider implications of policy level advocacy to help improve the lives of others.

I have learned many lessons that have changed how I see my role in making a difference in the lives of others.  I have learned that Social Work casts a wide net of influence, and making small changes can have far reaching implications in the lives of clients.  I have learned to capitalize on the resilience of individuals, the strength of protective factors in communities, and to seek support from coalitions when I think about how an individual can make progress on their goals.  I have learned how to assist clients with a strengths based treatment plan where achievable goals are set so that the client can easily see progress which may improve their outlook.  I have learned the importance of remaining a support to empower the client so that they can improve their confidence in their problem solving skills. 

These skills will be beneficial as I seek licensure and employment as an outpatient therapist that will continue learning to be a substance abuse counselor.  For this ePortfolio I have selected pieces of work listed on the left that communicate that I am a proficient practitioner that focuses on evidence based practices, acts ethically, and is able to assist clients in a variety of ways at the micro, mezzo, and macro level while seeking social justice.  I also hope to show that I consider the far reaching implications of policy and the unintended consequences that need to be addressed by unfair laws.