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, AZ01.2026
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