Final Assessment

Final Assessment: Employment in the Human Services Field
Human Services Profession

Agency Selection
Your actions and reaction during a very hard time for your aunt really show what it means to
care and support someone. It's impressive how well you used the helpful steps to offer both
physical and mental support. You gave your aunt a way to say what she needed by asking, "What
can I do to help?" This is often just as important as the help itself. This not only made her life
easier, but it also built trust and a stronger bond between you two. You were very dedicated and
accepting of her situation because you were able to fit care into your plan to help her with
everyday chores.
Mental Health America (MHA) and The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) were two
other groups that were looked at. NIMH is mostly about study, while MHA is about supporting
mental health through lobbying, teaching, and service. Both organizations have good goals, but I
didn't choose them because I'm more interested in direct service delivery and community effect,
which SAMHSA does a lot of.
I want to work at SAMHSA because it gives me the chance to make a difference on a national
level in policies and programs that affect people's lives directly. I also like that SAMHSA
focuses on combining prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. This is an all-around
approach to human services that fits with my professional values and work goals.
Agency Description
Services Offered
SAMHSA offers a wide range of services including:
 Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: These programs provide resources and support
for individuals struggling with substance abuse, including prevention, intervention, and
recovery services.
 Mental Health Services: SAMHSA offers services aimed at promoting mental health
and preventing mental illness, including community mental health services and crisis
intervention.
 Prevention Programs: These programs focus on preventing the onset of substance abuse
and mental health issues through education and community outreach.
 Grant Programs: SAMHSA provides funding through various grant programs to
support state and local initiatives addressing substance abuse and mental health.
Professionals and Their Roles
Professionals within SAMHSA include:
 Substance Abuse Counselors: Provide counseling and support to individuals dealing
with substance abuse issues.
 Mental Health Counselors: Offer therapeutic services to individuals with mental health
challenges.
 Program Administrators: Oversee the implementation and management of SAMHSA’s
programs and initiatives.
 Policy Analysts: Develop and analyze policies related to substance abuse and mental
health services.
 Researchers: Conduct studies to inform SAMHSA’s programs and improve service
delivery.
History and Current Trends
History of SAMHSA
SAMHSA was established in 1992 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to
improve access to quality substance abuse and mental health services in the United States. The
agency was created to support the provision of services to individuals with or at risk for mental
and substance use disorders.
SAMHSA's mission is "to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s
communities." Since its inception, SAMHSA has evolved to address emerging trends in
substance abuse and mental health, such as the opioid crisis and increasing rates of mental health
disorders among youth.
Comparison with Human Services Field History
The history of SAMHSA mirrors the broader history of the human services field in its focus on
improving quality of life and providing essential support services. Both have evolved in response
to changing societal needs and trends. However, SAMHSA's specific focus on substance abuse
and mental health distinguishes it from the broader human services field, which encompasses a
wider range of services including child welfare, homelessness, and community development.
Current Trends
Current trends impacting SAMHSA's work include the opioid epidemic, the rising incidence of
mental health issues among diverse populations, and the integration of technology in service
delivery. These trends are directly related to the broader trends in the human services field, such
as the increasing need for specialized services and the emphasis on evidence-based practices.
Theories, Values, and Ethics
Importance of a Code of Ethics
A code of ethics is crucial for guiding the behavior and decision-making of human service
professionals. It ensures that services are provided in a manner that respects the dignity and
rights of clients and maintains professional integrity.
Impact of Code of Ethics on Service Provision
At SAMHSA, the code of ethics would guide my interactions with clients, ensuring
confidentiality, informed consent, and non-discrimination. It would also provide a framework for
resolving ethical dilemmas and maintaining professional boundaries.
Ethical Standards
 Most Challenging: Maintaining professional boundaries might be challenging in
emotionally charged situations where clients form strong bonds with service providers.
 Least Challenging: Ensuring confidentiality is a standard I feel confident in maintaining
due to its clear guidelines and importance in building trust with clients.
Application of Theory
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) theory could be applied while working at
SAMHSA. For example, in substance abuse counseling, I might use CBT to help clients identify
and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their substance use. This
approach could involve developing coping strategies and skills to manage triggers and prevent
relapse.
Role in the Helping Process
Roles in Each Stage of the Helping Process
 Intake and Assessment: Conducting comprehensive assessments to understand clients'
needs and develop appropriate service plans.
 Planning: Collaborating with clients to set achievable goals and determine the best
strategies for achieving them.
 Implementation: Providing direct services such as counseling, facilitating support
groups, and connecting clients with resources.
 Evaluation: Monitoring clients' progress and adjusting service plans as needed to ensure
effective outcomes.
 Termination: Preparing clients for the end of services, ensuring they have the necessary
support and resources to continue their progress independently.
Career Opportunities
Available Careers and Qualifications
SAMHSA offers various career opportunities including substance abuse counselors, mental
health counselors, policy analysts, and program administrators.
Entry-Level Position
An entry-level position I am interested in is Substance Abuse Counselor. The qualifications for
this position typically include a bachelor's degree in human services or a related field, relevant
certification (such as CADC or LCDC), and experience in substance abuse counseling.
Personal Qualifications
I possess a bachelor's degree in psychology and have completed an internship in a substance
abuse treatment center, providing me with foundational knowledge and practical experience.
However, I need to obtain the relevant certification and gain more direct experience in substance
abuse counseling to fully qualify for the position.
Summary of Learning
Throughout this course, I have learned about the diverse roles and settings in which human
services professionals work, the importance of ethical standards, and the application of theories
in practice. This knowledge has deepened my understanding of the human services field and its
impact on individuals and communities. I can apply these insights to my everyday life by
advocating for mental health awareness, volunteering in community service programs, and
continuing to develop my professional skills to better serve those in need.
In conclusion, this assessment has provided a comprehensive understanding of the human
services profession and has prepared me to pursue a career in this rewarding field. The
knowledge and skills gained will enable me to contribute effectively to the well-being of
individuals and communities through my work at agencies like SAMHSA.
References
 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved
from SAMHSA
 National Organization for Human Services. (n.d.). Ethical Standards for Human Service
Professionals. Retrieved from NOHS
 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). The Opioid Epidemic: By the
Numbers. Retrieved from HHS

Final Assessment

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Final Assessment

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Final Assessment

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Final Assessment: Employment in the Human Services Field

Human Services Profession

You might also like