Open to opportunities

Karen Jooste

@karenjooste

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Experienced addiction counselor and English teacher.

South Africa

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What I'm looking for

Seeking roles in counseling or education where I can apply my therapeutic expertise and passion for teaching to foster growth and well-being in a supportive environment.

I am a dedicated and compassionate addiction counselor with over a decade of experience supporting diverse clients, from teenagers to the elderly, in addressing substance use and behavioral addictions. My approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), tailored to each client's unique needs. Additionally, I have extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language, conducting engaging online sessions that cater to individual learning styles and cultural backgrounds.

Hold a BA degree (Cum Laude) in Psychology and Criminology from UNISA and a BA Honours in Social Science – Clinical Social Work (Substance Abuse) from the University of Cape Town. My strengths include being a fast learner, having great people skills, and being reliable and motivated. I am passionate about helping others, with interests in equine-assisted therapy and medicine.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

English Teacher

Current

Self Employed

Feb 2018 - Present (7 years 3 months)

I teach English as a foreign language to students from diverse backgrounds through online platforms. My lessons are tailored to individual needs, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills while fostering a supportive virtual classroom environment.

Online Education Cultural Adaptability Communication Skills Student Engagement

Current

Addiction Counselor

Current

Self Employed

Jan 2014 - Present (11 years 4 months)

As a self-employed addiction counselor, I support clients of diverse ages in addressing substance use and behavioral addictions. I utilize evidence-based practices like DBT and CBT, integrating life coaching to empower clients in achieving personal and professional goals.

DBT CBT Coaching Coping Mechanisms

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Cape Town

BA Honours, Social Science

2014 - 2015

Completed a BA Honours in Social Science with a focus on Clinical Social Work, specializing in Substance Abuse, equipping me with advanced skills in addiction counseling.

University of South Africa

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Criminology

2007 - 2011

Grade: Cum Laude

Completed a BA degree (Cum Laude) majoring in Psychology and Criminology, focusing on the understanding of human behavior and the criminal justice system.