Amara Carson

Driven and empathetic social worker with experience across many different mental health domains and social service agencies.

Outpatient SUD Therapist at Avalon Wellness and Recovery Center (AWRC) (2026-07 – Present)

• Facilitate high-engagement IOP and OP therapy groups, managing group dynamics safely and effectively for clients navigating various stages of change
• Manage a caseload of 10-15 clients, providing individual weekly therapy, conducting comprehensive clinical assessments, and developing individualized, measurable treatment plans
• Designed and authored a proprietary 12-week IOP/OP group curriculum, incorporating CBT, DBT, IFS, and neuroscience concepts to educate clients and prevent relapse

Intake Manager at Avalon Wellness and Recovery Center (AWRC) (2025-01 – 2026-06)

• Conducted initial evaluations to assess the needs of each client and determine the appropriate level of care
• Utilized standardized assessment tools and clinical judgment to gather comprehensive information on the client's medical, psychological, and social history
• Facilitated referrals to external services as needed, coordinating with local healthcare and social service providers

Behavioral Health Associate at Advent Health Shawnee Mission (2022-03 – 2024-12)

• Completed quarter-hour rounds on high-acuity patients admitted to the inpatient behavioral health unit
• Collaborated with unit nurses, therapists, and doctors to synchronize and streamline patient care
• Upheld organization’s standards of “whole-person care” through evidence-based practice, professional development, relationship-based care, and shared leadership

Clinical Intake Coordinator at Discovery Behavioral Health (2020-10 – 2022-03)

• Organized and carried out mental health treatments for patients diagnosed with depression and anxiety
• Communicated with patients about their progress and ongoing needs throughout treatment
• Scheduled clients for their daily treatment and communicated expectations and treatment options

Practicum Student at The Lilac Center (North KC) (2025-08 – 2026-04)

• Led DBT focused IOP groups for adults/adolescents, as well as 1:1 support sessions for DBT skill implementation
• Conducted intake psychosocial assessments, assessing client needs and determining level of care
• Maintained timely medical records and completed group and individual session documentation

Practicum Student at Journey to New Life (JTNL) (2024-08 – 2025-04)

• Prioritized learning about the lives and experiences of previously incarcerated people
• Used social work skills to engage with clients through case management and emergency services
• Hosted and led community groups for individuals who had been previously incarcerated

Master of Social Work in Clinical Specialization – University of Kansas - Edwards Campus (2026-05)

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Minor in Sociology – University of Missouri - Kansas City (2022-12)