Athen Waddell
Harrisburg
Summary
Dedicated professional with a strong educational background in child mental health, human development, and neurodevelopmental differences. Committed to cultural humility and ethical standards in social work, providing compassionate client care. Proven leadership skills enhance interdisciplinary communication for effective service delivery to minors. Driven by the desire to support youth and families through a comprehensive understanding of family dynamics and mental health challenges.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Intern
Avera Family Wellness Program
08.2025 - Current
- Conduct thorough intake assessments to the program in an outpatient setting
- Create individualized treatment plans for children and families
- Collaborate and communicate with colleagues to support families
- Provide individual and family therapy sessions utilizing evidence-based practices
Patient Access Representative- Preceptor Float
Sanford Health
09.2023 - Current
- Schedule, register, and confirm patient appointments
- Orient and train new hires to ensure policy is being followed
- Learn and adapt to new clinic setting regularly as a floating position
Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Trainee
Center for Disabilities
08.2024 - 05.2025
- Participate as a trainee in a monthly developmental clinic
- Collaborate across disciplines with students to assess a child and make recommendations
- Complete a research project pertaining to childhood development
Education
Master of Social Work -
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota05-2026
Skills
- Experience in Qualitative and Quantitative Social Research Projects
- Proficiency with Epic Electronic Health Records System
- Proficiency with Microsoft and Google Suite
- Completion of a Full Training on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)
- Experience in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams
- Experience utilizing Play therapy techniques
- Understanding of Trauma-Informed Care strategies
- Clinical documentation
Timeline
Graduate Intern
Avera Family Wellness Program
08.2025 - Current
Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Trainee
Center for Disabilities
08.2024 - 05.2025
Patient Access Representative- Preceptor Float
Sanford Health
09.2023 - Current
Master of Social Work -
University of South Dakota