Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Sydney Tolleson

McDonough

Summary

Empathetic and mission-driven counselor-in-training with over four years of lived recovery experience and a strong foundation in trauma-informed, faith-integrated care. Skilled in motivational interviewing, ethical documentation, and culturally responsive outreach for justice-involved and marginalized populations. Passionate about restoring dignity and connection through evidence-based and spiritually grounded counseling.


Overview

1
1
year of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Advocate & Peer Support Specialist

Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network
01.2025 - Current
  • Provide person-centered, trauma-informed support to peers navigating mental health and substance use challenges.
  • Facilitate peer-led groups focused on dual recovery.
  • Document client progress using BIRP format.
  • Helped my peers learn skills such as problem solving, setting SMART goals, and personal responsibility.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Counseling

Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
01.2026

High School Diploma - undefined

Heritage High School
05.2010

Skills

  • Trauma-informed counseling
  • Integrative motivational interviewing and reasoning
  • Faith-oriented recovery guidance
  • Community engagement and advocacy
  • Practice of ethical cultural engagement
  • Biblical worldview
  • Effective communication skills
  • Effective time management
  • Strong relationship-building abilities
  • Supportive demeanor

Certification

  • Counselor-in-training
  • Certified Peer Specialist-MH
  • Certified Peer Specialist-AD
  • RESPECT Institute Graduate

Timeline

Advocate & Peer Support Specialist

Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network
01.2025 - Current

Bachelor of Science - Counseling

Grand Canyon University

High School Diploma - undefined

Heritage High School
Sydney Tolleson