Sherry H Whiteside Email and Phone Number

Attending networking events Researching Industry Leaders Tracking Industry Trends Participating in Industry Discussions

Counseled clients experiencing severe mental illness weekly in group sessions and individually. Treatment plans were created and updated regularly to meet the needs of each person. CBT improved my clients ability to handle their anxiety, depression and life stress.

Three different group topics daily were incorporated into the geriatric clients program which met three days weekly. Multiple progress notes I wrote for each client following our meeting days, up to thirty+, depending on attendance. The focus of groups was education and treatment of depression, anxiety, grief aimed at improving my clients knowledge of their diagnoses and recommended treatment modalities. Multiple assessments were initially administered including detailed psychosocials and mental status exams. Their treatment plans were updated weekly in the context of a multidisciplinary team aided by two nurses. Clients and their families we encouraged to engage in development as well as partnering with us to achieve and sustain our treatment goals. Individual sessions with each group member was an ongoing part of the service I provided them. Topics too sensitive for group discussion were reserved for private sessions weekly or monthly as either prescribed by our psychiatrist or as I recommended.As a caring professional in a helping profession, the group modality rewarded me instantly vs.my work with individuals or families. This group counseling format increased my value for the counseling profession and it's potential impact on all age groups, in particular our aging society. My clients showered their positive regard toward me and their fellow group members in response to the atmosphere of trust and encouragement developed within our group framework.

My responsibilities while in private practice included working with couples in marriage or premarital counseling; children and family counseling . Referrals came from local physicians, EAP companies, Managed Care Networks or PPO's, or court ordered individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance addictions. Word of mouth became my best source of clients over time. Companies that I am credentialed with are BCBS of TN, Aetna, Compsych, United Health Care, Magellan and Value Options, etc.

Provided in-home services to indigent families referred by Dept. of Children Services. Parenting and life skills were taught. Assessments administered and interpreted as needed for depression, anxiety and substance abuse. For court purposes, personality evaluations including mental status exams and psychosocials.

Interviewed and evaluated veterans for treatment planning or job placement. Administered and interpreted behavioral inventories and personality assessments including MMPI, WRAT, Wechsler, Strong Interest & Myers Briggs Type Inventories. Then, appropriate referrals to TRC and TWC were possible. Successful case management of veterans with various physical and psychiatric disorders was rewarding. Empathizing with the traumas of each veteran whether from combat related exposure or unresolved psychosocial issues from their family lives enabled me to form realistic expectations for treatment planning.