
Becky Smith
Details
Skills
Recovery Coach
Invitation to Change Facilitator
Mentoring
Mental Health First Aid (Adult/Child)
De-escalation Skills
Effective Communication
Recovery Wellness Plans
Professional Development
Motivational Interviewing
SMART Goals
Crisis Response
Trauma Informed Care
ACE
Positive Reinforcement Skills
Listening Skills
Several Documentation Styles (SOAP)
Research and Development
WRAp
Peer Support Specialist with a background in healthcare and law.
CNA/NAC
About
I have always believed that every action is prompted by a specific cause. My journey began at a young age when I started working alongside my mother, who was a certified nursing assistant with a passion for improving working conditions in caregiving facilities. I vividly remember her efforts to bring a union into the nursing home where she worked, which taught me the importance of documentation and advocacy.
In November 1993, I was involved in a severe car accident that was initially thought to leave me unable to walk again. However, I defied the odds and eventually regained my ability to walk, albeit at a slower pace. This life-altering event led me down a path of struggle with drug addiction. In 1999, I sought help through outpatient rehabilitation and embarked on a journey of mental health recovery. I was determined to turn my life around and went back to school, earning my GED and an Associates of Arts and Science Degree in Legal Administration.
My academic journey led me to a work-study program with Yakima Valley Community College, where I had the opportunity to work with a non-profit organization called RSVP of Yakima County. This experience culminated in a significant project through the AmeriCorps Vista program, solidifying my dedication to making a difference in the community. Despite this, I continued my career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and pursued a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, which I successfully completed in 2006.
Balancing my studies, raising my children, and pursuing my career was no easy feat, but I managed to save enough money for a down payment on a home for my son and me. However, after many years working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Spokane and throughout WA State, I realized that I wanted to continue helping people in a different capacity. I discovered my talent for de-escalating challenging situations and was often referred to as a "whisperer" due to my ability to calm others during difficult circumstances.
During my free time, I actively scoured social media to assist individuals in need of various resources, including food, medical assistance, therapy, and even pet care. My efforts extended to helping people secure caregivers and transportation. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, I took it upon myself to gather and distribute food and essential supplies to those in need. This initiative fostered lasting connections with individuals who continue to seek my guidance in finding resources for themselves and others.
I take immense pleasure in empowering and educating individuals so that they can utilize their knowledge to help themselves and others, embodying the spirit of "paying it forward."