Hello,
My name is Melissa Hunsicker, I use she/her pronouns and go by Mel. I do not have a lot of experience working directly with children and adolescents, and am taking this class to get a better understanding of foundational theories and frameworks when working with this population. I’m particularly interested in learning more about the concept of resilience and understanding the developmental impact of various childhood traumas. I just finished my first year field placement at Malvern Treatment Centers in Willow Grove in their Clinical department. This is a dual diagnosis substance use inpatient treatment center. My core responsibilities included individual counseling and case management sessions, and group facilitation. I also work at Malvern Treatment Center in their Admissions department. My second year field placement is at the Wisteria Program at Malvern Behavioral Health in South Philadelphia. This is an inpatient psychiatric facility for the LGBTQ community.
My first job out of college was at Broad Street Ministry, now known as Broad Street Love, as a Volunteer Coordinator. We provided direct social services to people experiencing homelessness through a radical hospitality lens. This experience helped me realize I wanted to go back to school for Social Work and provided me with so much informal clinical experience which has significantly helped me in my professional career.
Beyond work and school, I enjoy hiking, running, traveling, the arts, and spending time with my friends and family. I live in Philly and love the city.
Thanks!
Mel