JASON PALAGI
SOCIAL WORKER
Goreville,IL
Summary
With a focus on compassion, empathy, and a dedication to making a positive impact on society, I have chosen to pursue a career in social work. My commitment to social justice, human rights, and the well-being of individuals and communities drives my decision. As a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with a background in clinical therapy, research, and educational administration, I bring a versatile skill set to the table. My expertise lies in providing individual, couples, and family therapy, specializing in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
11
11
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Therapist
Koen Counseling and Wellness Center
Herrin, IL
05.2024 - Current
- Provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families, addressing a range of mental health issues
- Utilize therapeutic counseling and psychoeducational materials to support client progress
- Develop termination plans to ensure sustainable mental health improvements
- Foster a supportive environment, achieving measurable improvements in client well-being
- Assess and adapt therapeutic approaches to efficiently address individual needs
- Improve patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based therapeutic techniques and interventions.
- Conducted thorough assessments to accurately diagnose mental health conditions and develop appropriate treatment strategies.
Intern
Koen Counseling and Wellness Center
Herrin, IL
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Conducted assessments to identify client needs, strengths, and goals, ensuring tailored treatment plans
- Developed and implemented personalized therapy plans, providing consistent support and counseling
- Facilitated measurable improvements in client well-being through targeted therapeutic interventions
- Evaluated client conditions to craft targeted treatment strategies, enhancing counseling effectiveness
- Supported staff members in their daily tasks, reducing workload burden and allowing for increased focus on higher-priority assignments.
Research Intern
Paul Simon Institute- Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL
01.2019 - 05.2020
- Conducted independent policy research on state-level marijuana legalization, analyzing taxation frameworks
- Evaluated licensing fees and product regulation, providing actionable insights for policy development
- Investigated revenue impacts, banking industry challenges, and prison reform related to marijuana legalization
- Assessed agricultural development opportunities, contributing to comprehensive policy recommendations
Test Center Manager
Prometric
Merrillville, IN
05.2012 - 08.2013
- Planned monthly staff schedules and supervised both permanent and temporary Test Center Administrators
- Approved payroll for staff
- Maintained a 12-month schedule for utilization of center open hours to meet and satisfy corporate contractual requirements
- Hired and trained new full time and temporary employees
- Filed irregularity reports for unusual situations or complaints
- Ordered supplies and maintained a budget
- Oversaw installation of new equipment
- Supervised security/verification precautions of test candidates, including signature comparisons and fingerprinting
- Ensured that the operations and performance at the test center met the standards of Prometric and its testing clients
- Managed daily operations of the test center, ensuring smooth functioning of all aspects including personnel, facilities, and equipment.
Lead Test Proctor
Moraine Valley Community College
Palos Hills, IL
03.2002 - 05.2012
- Logged in and filed incoming tests from teachers
- Proctored tests for students
- Assisted in training student aides and new staff
- Interpreted ACT cutoff scores and transcripts
- Volunteered in Academic Advising during peak registration periods
- Administered Compass, IC3, VALPAR, ACT High Stakes Testing, EMT, CNA, CLEP, proctored exams from other colleges and universities, and various state and national licensing and certification exams offered through Pearson Vue
- Improved test security by regularly updating and implementing strict proctoring protocols and procedures.
Finance Researcher
Alexi for Illinois
Chicago, IL
04.2009 - 11.2010
- Recruited grassroots donors and developed strategy for interaction and retention
- Researched data on thousands of campaign donors
- Created Excel spreadsheets with donor information
- Coordinated and assisted in event fundraising
- Worked in concert with the new media and communications departments to enhance the donor experience and increase attendance to fund raising and field opportunities
- Oversaw interns in the finance department
Education
Master of Social Work -
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Carbondale, IL 06.2023 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Carbondale, IL 06.2017 - 05.2020
Master of Arts - Political And Justice Studies
Governors State University
Park Forest, IL 06.2009 - 08.2011
Post Graduate Diploma - Radio Production
Bournemouth University
Bournemouth, England 10.2000 - 08.2001
Bachelor of Arts - Radio And Television
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Carbondale, IL 08.1998 - 08.2000
No Degree - Psychology
Governors State University
Park Forest, IL 08.2007 - 05.2009
Skills
Client Needs Evaluation
Trained in EMDR Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Client Case Management
Effective Treatment Planning
Additional Information - Activities And Honors
- Phi Theta Kappa
- Dean's List
- Social Work Student Alliance
- Harold Washington Scholarship recipient
Timeline
Therapist
Koen Counseling and Wellness Center
05.2024 - Current
Intern
Koen Counseling and Wellness Center
08.2023 - 05.2024
Master of Social Work -
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
06.2023 - 05.2024
Research Intern
Paul Simon Institute- Southern Illinois University
01.2019 - 05.2020
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
06.2017 - 05.2020
Test Center Manager
Prometric
05.2012 - 08.2013
Master of Arts - Political And Justice Studies
Governors State University
06.2009 - 08.2011
Finance Researcher
Alexi for Illinois
04.2009 - 11.2010
No Degree - Psychology
Governors State University
08.2007 - 05.2009
Lead Test Proctor
Moraine Valley Community College
03.2002 - 05.2012
Post Graduate Diploma - Radio Production
Bournemouth University
10.2000 - 08.2001
Bachelor of Arts - Radio And Television
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
08.1998 - 08.2000