James Bowlds
Mokena
Summary
Student affairs professional with experience in higher education, specifically in career services, and a background in clinical mental health counseling. Proven ability to support student development and well-being through a holistic approach, combining expertise in academic support, career development, crisis intervention, and mental health resources. Passionate about fostering inclusive and thriving campus communities.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Career Counselor
Governors State University
01.2025 - Current
- Provides individual career counseling to students and alumni, addressing diverse career-related needs.
- Conducts career assessments (e.g., Myers-Briggs and Strong Interest Inventory) and interprets results to facilitate career exploration.
- Assists students with resume and cover letter development, enhancing their job application materials.
- Teaches job search strategies, including networking, interviewing skills, and online job portal navigation.
- Facilitates workshops on various career development topics.
- Advises students on internship and job search strategies, connecting them with potential employers.
- Supports students in identifying and articulating their skills, interests, and values to align with career goals.
- Provides students with ongoing support and guidance.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern
Turning Point Counseling
05.2023 - 05.2024
- Conducted initial intake assessments for each new client.
- Crafted and implemented treatment plans for over 15 individual clients a week with varying mental health disorders.
- Co-led psychoeducational groups for community members on topics such as grief and loss.
- Documented client progress each week in various online systems.
- Collaborated with other health professionals to ensure proper care for each client.
Assistant Youth Pastor
Alleluia Lutheran Church
07.2021 - 03.2023
- Provided pastoral care during times of crisis or grief, offering comfort and counsel to both youth members and their families.
- Assisted in developing innovative programs for spiritual growth, resulting in increased participation and commitment among young attendees.
- Maintained open lines of communication with the Senior Pastor, keeping them informed of ongoing issues, accomplishments, and vision for the future direction of the youth ministry.
- Promoted volunteer opportunities within the church community, motivating young people to serve others as part of their faith journey.
Student Mentor
CityLife Center
08.2018 - 03.2020
- Established strong relationships with students, building trust and open communication channels for ongoing support.
- Improved student satisfaction by providing personalized academic support and guidance.
- Monitored student academic progress, communicating with each student frequently and intervening to assist students experiencing difficulties.
- Assisted in the development of effective study habits, leading to increased test scores and higher grades.
Education
Master of Arts - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Trinity Christian College
Palos Heights, IL05-2024
Bachelor of Science - Christian Education
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL05-2021
Skills
- Assessment interpretation
- Community collaboration
- Career exploration
- Motivating students
- Emotional support
- Student support
- Student advocacy
- Multicultural competence
- Individual counseling
- Higher education understanding
- Higher education policies
Timeline
Career Counselor
Governors State University
01.2025 - Current
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern
Turning Point Counseling
05.2023 - 05.2024
Assistant Youth Pastor
Alleluia Lutheran Church
07.2021 - 03.2023
Student Mentor
CityLife Center
08.2018 - 03.2020
Master of Arts - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Trinity Christian College
Bachelor of Science - Christian Education
Olivet Nazarene University
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