WorkAdvance for

Human Service Careers

General Information

  • Monday-Friday from June 9-20, 2025, 8:00am-3:00pm each day

  • Modeled workday, with limited breaks and one 30-minute lunch period

  • Lunch provided daily

Career Readiness

  • Defining professionalism in human services roles

    Professional vs. unprofessional behavior

    Work attire: Understanding dress codes

    Language use: Formal vs. informal communication

  • Proper use of company resources

    Integrity and accountability in human services

    Handling confidential information

    Reporting unethical behavior

  • Differences and similarities between communicating with supervisors vs. peers

    Recognizing communication styles (assertive, passive, aggressive)

    Checking in regularly and providing updates

    Schedule changes

  • When and how to approach supervisors for support

    Differentiating between guidance and micromanagement

    Building Positive

    Asking for help without appearing unprepared

    Presenting challenges to supervisors

  • Email and Social Media Etiquette

    Crafting professional emails

    Social media do’s and don’ts as a professional

    When to text vs. call

    Leaving professional voicemails

  • The Impact of Ghosting

    Consequences for clients and employers

    Real stories of ghosting effects

    How to professionally end employment

    Maintaining communication during absences

  • Identifying Personal Stressors

    Balancing work demands with personal life

    Techniques for stress management

    Community and workplace resources

    Building a personal support network

    Crafting a work-life balance strategy

  • Taxes, deductions, and take-home pay

    Creating a Monthly Budget

    Financial Goal Setting

    Evaluating wages and benefits

    Local assistance programs, tax credits, and community resources for entry-level workers

  • Key sections and tailoring to roles

    Identifying transferable skills

    Answering behavioral questions

    Demonstrating enthusiasm and knowledge

  • Building inclusivity and respect in the workplace

    What to look for in a potential employer

    Avoiding misunderstandings in the workplace

Human Service Readiness

  • Ethics and Boundaries: Setting Professional Standards

    The Human Services Professional Ladder (careers, pathways, certifications, and degrees)

  • Working with Marginalized and/or High-Need Clients

    Overcoming Personal Bias: Self-Reflection Activities

    Gathering Accurate and Relevant Information

  • Establishing Trust and Building Rapport

    Effective Motivational Interviewing Techniques

    Active Listening and Non-Verbal Communication

  • Accurate Record Keeping and Progress Notes

    Confidentiality, HIPAA, and Legal Considerations

    Writing and Reviewing Documentation

  • Identifying Crisis Situations: Behavioral Cues and Red Flags

    De-Escalation Techniques and Emotional Regulation

    Safety Planning and Crisis Protocols

  • *Professional Certificate Available

    Identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders

  • Teaching Daily Living Skills (health habits, hygiene)

    Building Resilience and Coping Strategies

    Goal Setting Techniques and Encouraging Follow-Through

  • Identifying Local Resources (housing, food, mental health, employment)

    Guiding Clients to Access Services Effectively

    Teaching Clients Self-Advocacy and System Navigation

  • Providing individuals from poverty with the knowledge, skills, and resources to navigate the world and build a more stable futur

Already Have A Health-Related Degree or Certificate?

"Your Skills Still Matter—Just in a Different Setting"

Bridge the gap between healthcare and behavioral health.