March is Social Work Month! We are incredibly grateful for the amazing work our social workers do in supporting others. Guided by our IDEAL principles of Inclusive Culture, Different Voices, Embracing Potential, Authentic Self and Learning & Growing, we’re excited to spotlight some of our team members as they share their perspectives and experiences as social workers.
Allyson
Allyson is a Program Supervisor at our Outpatient Clinic in Wilmington, NC. “Social workers are invested in helping individuals, the community and society as a whole. We are responsible for promoting change. Social work isn’t limited to one occupation. We have a broad scope and contribute in many settings—including outpatient therapy clinics, schools, hospitals, prisons, the military, inpatient care, mental health facilities and even veterinary settings,” says Allyson. The IDEAL principle that resonates most with Allyson is Authentic Self. She explains, “It’s important to be aware of your authentic self when processing how we feel, how we think, how we make decisions and how we interact with others. Identifying your core values and beliefs and living by them is essential not only to being a social worker but also to being a human being.”
Amber
Amber, LCSWA, is a Mental Health Clinician with our Child First program. She works alongside a Family Resource Partner to support families who have experienced trauma or toxic stress within the home. She provides Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), a relationship-based model designed to strengthen the bond between child and caregiver. “Social workers serve our communities through philanthropic efforts and also through advocacy, policy change, research and program implementation. Through these efforts, social workers strive to create an impact by achieving social justice and equity for all.” The IDEAL principle that resonates most with Amber is Authentic Self. She believes that showing your genuine self allows others to feel secure, build trust and be vulnerable. This strengthens relationships and is incredibly valuable in the work she does.
Jayce
Jayce is an independent practitioner and Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program (SAIOP) facilitator at our Wilmington, NC outpatient clinic. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Addiction Specialist, Jayce emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating social workers. She shares, “Social workers give a voice to individuals who may not always have one. To me, being a social worker goes beyond providing therapy—it’s about empowering and advocating for the people I support. This profession has deepened my understanding of the vital role equity plays in our community. The principle that resonates most with me is Learning & Growing. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a social worker is the power of speaking up and speaking out against injustice. You never know who might learn from your voice.”
Marcie
Marcie is the Program Director of Tailored Care Management and Intake & Outpatient Therapy. She supervises the operations of these programs and helps with her team’s administrative and clinical activities. “Social workers are invaluable because of our versatility in both the work we do and the people we support,” Marcie shares. “Our work goes beyond helping people meet their basic needs, especially within vulnerable populations. We strive to empower people, enhance their lives and provide support for people who may not be able to advocate for themselves. Without embracing the principle of Authentic Self, we cannot truly be inclusive or appreciate diverse voices. I emphasize this with every member of my team by reminding them how valued they are—both for who they are and the unique perspectives they bring to the table.”
Paula
Paula, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, is a Program Supervisor at our Jacksonville outpatient clinic. Paula helps create a safe and supportive environment so her team can successfully provide outpatient individual therapy, group therapy and Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program (SAIOP) treatment. “It’s essential to recognize and celebrate social workers for their steadfast dedication. They play a vital role in advocating for reforms that help support vulnerable populations. Their impact challenges systemic inequalities and promotes social justice. Because of social workers, countless individuals have gained access to safe housing, had their basic needs met and found spaces where they feel safe, heard, accepted and empowered to succeed,” says Paula. “I identify most with the principle of Learning & Growing. My favorite quote is ‘Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new’ by Albert Einstein.”
Shakera
Shakera, MSW, LCSWA, TCM, is a Manager with our Tailored Care Management team! She coordinates personalized care plans for people, ensuring their medical, social and emotional needs are met. She also works alongside healthcare providers and families to facilitate their access to services and resources. “Social workers are experts in navigating complex systems and advocate for individuals facing a wide range of challenges. They are counselors and also skilled professionals who bridge the gap to essential resources. They offer holistic support for immediate and long-term needs for well-being.” Shakera identifies most with Embracing Potential. “By empowering people to reach their fullest potential, we foster an environment of growth, self-confidence and resilience, ultimately creating a more inclusive and supportive community.”
Taylor
Taylor is an Individual + Community Services (ICS) Program Supervisor in Wilmington, NC. She and her team provide case management, clinical support and daily assistance to ensure the best possible outcomes for those in the program. Taylor shares, “Social workers play a vital role in the communities they serve and in driving social progress. Being able to provide care, build relationships and make a positive difference is incredibly meaningful to me.” The principle Taylor connects with most is Embracing Potential, believing that everyone has the ability to learn, grow, adapt and change. She shares, “I wish more people understood and prioritized the core values of social work—compassion, inclusion, empathy, humility and belonging. I think everyone could benefit from a little more of each!”
Tiffany
Tiffany, LCSWA, is a Manager with our Tailored Care Management team. She helps people with mental health challenges, substance use disorders and also intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), in achieving their healthcare goals and needs. She helps support people with both their physical and mental health needs. “Social workers make a profound impact by advocating for justice and meeting the needs of all people, especially vulnerable populations,” says Tiffany. “Our dedication often leads us to put others first as we help them overcome challenges and improve their well-being.” The IDEAL principle Tiffany most identifies with is Authentic Self. “It’s okay to be vulnerable. Showing my authentic self allows me to build healthy, therapeutic relationships with those I support and it encourages my colleagues to be open and collaborate with me.
ABOUT US
Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, behavioral health and addiction treatment services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
