William Dooley, MS, LPC, CBIS

Vocational Rehabilitation
Assistant Director of Mental Health Services, Vocational Rehabilitation
William.dooley@vr.dese.mo.gov
https://dese.mo.gov/adult-learning-rehabilitation-services/vocational-rehabilitation

William has worked for Mo VR for 6 years and is housed in the Joplin District Office.  He graduated in 2019 with his master’s in clinical psychology from Missouri State University and has current LPC licensure with the state.  He is a certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor from the Missouri Institute of Mental Health, working with others to bring information about mental health struggles and strategies to the state VR staff, as well as the local and state communities and any others who could benefit from this information (spoiler: that’s everyone!).  William has 5 kids who are all in sports and activities, and therefore, he does not have any hobbies of note, although he enjoys jamming out and going to concerts from time to time.  William always has a kazoo stashed in his car in case he needs to break out into music, and he loves to read fantasy books.

About

Research shows that the vast majority of those in the US recognize the state of mental health in our country is spiraling, and many will have personal experience with someone who is struggling with their mental health.  Given that early intervention and proactive steps make significant difference in the outcome of these struggles, we will discuss the need for self-care and strategies for mental health care, resources to better recognize and address these struggles, and steps to start taking control of our mental health.  These strategies will help equip and empower individuals to address mental health needs for themselves and others, and how to find appropriate resources to address challenges.  Participants will have an opportunity to discuss personal self-care strategies and engage in a mindfulness meditation to kickstart some self-care tools and routines to utilize.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Recognize and learn how to implement self-care strategies

2. Identify resources that are available to address mental health struggles