I apologize for the lapse of time from my last entry. The cost to send entries via email is expensive. However, I am not complaining, I am very grateful to have this option available to me.
Since my last entry, I am happy to report that I have completed training as a Suicide Watch and Mental Health Companion. My full-time work assignment is now in the Psychology Services Department, providing mental health support to inmates in need of our services. Mental Health Companions listen and provide support in the following areas: stress, grief, anger, anxiety, depression,addiction, family concerns, emotional support, setting boundaries, effective communication, assistance with psychology program assignments, and we provide coping techniques and activities. In my current role I have been tasked to create flyers and brochures to promote events and bring awareness to the resources available to the women at Federal Correctional Institution-Waseca.
I also hold a part-time work assignment in the Education Services Department where I fulfill the role of a Tutor and I also facilitate classes. I am currently writing curriculum for a class based on the book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey, and I will be starting the class in May. I have stepped in to take over another class for a fellow tutor who was recently released. This class curriculum is written around “The Shack” by WM Paul Young and it is a journey through the book with activities that promote individual spiritual growth.
I was moved into the RDAP unit at the end of February and I am grateful and blessed to have the opportunity to participate in the program. It not only helps me, but it allows me to help others as well. Although I do not have enough time to complete a Peer Support Specialist apprenticeship, I am still receiving all of the benefits of my training and have been given the opportunity to track my hours. This experience will transfer into a career for me upon my release and hekp me manage my own mental health needs as well as my children’s needs. I will also pursue a degree in Psychology and Christian Counseling to help further my education in this field. God has shown me the purpose He has for my life, and I am so thankful for everything I’ve been through … the good and the bad. I am definitely a stronger, wiser, more humble, and better person than when I arrived at Waseca, and I know I can make a difference upon my return to society in a very positive, meaningful, and impactful way.
