Miranda Verellen

Compassionate and dedicated Certified Addiction Counsellor with experience supporting individuals throughout their recovery from substance use and concurrent mental health challenges. Recognized for building strong therapeutic relationships through empathy, effective communication, and a client-centred, harm reduction approach. Skilled in addiction assessment, individual and group counselling, crisis intervention, recovery planning, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Committed to helping clients identify strengths, overcome barriers, and achieve sustainable recovery.

Addiction Support Worker at Windsor Essex Community Health Centre (2022-05 – 2026-01)

• Conducted addiction intake, assessment, and early intervention for individuals experiencing substance use challenges using a harm reduction approach.
• Provided individual and group addiction counselling, education, and encouragement while fostering trusting therapeutic relationships.
• Assisted clients in setting recovery goals, developing life skills, and navigating the healthcare system through advocacy and care coordination.
• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver holistic, client-centred care and facilitate referrals to community resources.
• Facilitated educational workshops for clients and community organizations on addiction awareness.
• Maintained accurate clinical documentation, participated in case conferences and chart reviews, and ensured safe management of program resources and materials.

Addictions Counsellor- Group Leader at Brentwood Recovery Home (2019-01 – 2022-05)

• Provided support and guidance to women in a substance use and mental health treatment program through group facilitation and one-on-one interactions.
• Built rapport with clients through compassionate, respectful communication while encouraging personal growth and recovery.
• Monitored client progress, identified emerging needs, and communicated concerns to program leadership and clinical staff.
• Facilitated group meetings using effective engagement and de-escalation techniques to promote a safe, supportive environment.
• Maintained accurate, timely documentation and reports while ensuring confidentiality and compliance with organizational policies.
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams and individuals with lived experience to support client care and recovery outcomes.

Intake Officer at Brentwood Recovery Home (2020-10 – 2022-05)

• Conducted intake assessments and interviews to determine client eligibility for addiction treatment programs and coordinated the admission process.
• Completed intake documentation, maintained accurate client records, and ensured compliance with consent, confidentiality, and program requirements.
• Educated prospective clients on program expectations, admission procedures, and treatment services.
• Coordinated client admissions, orientations, and communication with program staff.
• Liaised with healthcare providers, social service agencies, legal professionals, employers, and community partners to support client admissions and continuity of care.
• Managed multiple priorities independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to address client needs and facilitate timely access to services.

Chemical Dependency Studies Diploma in Chemical Dependency Studies – St. Clair College (2018-12)

Ontario Secondary School Diploma – Ursuline College Secondary School (2009-05)