Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
A recent YouTube video interview conducted by Christopher Rush, Regional Director of Operations at Intercoast Colleges, offers a glimpse into the world of alcohol and drug counseling through the experiences of Evangelia Kafkalis. As a former graduate and valedictorian of Intercoast College, Evangelia has dedicated a decade of her life to counseling and has recently taken on the clinical coordinator role. In this engaging conversation, she discusses her role, the future of the field, and the qualities needed for success in alcohol and drug counseling. This article summarizes the key takeaways from the video interview for those interested in learning more about the profession.
A Passion for Helping Others
Evangelia’s fascination with human behavior and addiction led her to pursue a career in alcohol and drug counseling. After volunteering at an outpatient clinic and falling in love with the field, she decided to further her education at Intercoast College. Inspired by the incredible instructors and environment at the college, she knew she wanted to teach and help students in the same way that her mentors had helped her.
The Role of a Clinical Coordinator
As a clinical coordinator, Evangelia’s primary focus is guiding and supporting students during their internships while fostering relationships with internship sites through community outreach. In addition, she is responsible for providing continuing education and test preparation workshops, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed in their chosen field.
Challenges and the Future of the Field
Evangelia acknowledges that there is currently a shortage of professionals in the alcohol and drug counseling field, and she is hopeful that more individuals will join this workforce. With a growing demand for counselors, she envisions the field expanding into different settings, such as institutions and various types of clinics, in the near future.
Advice for Aspiring Counselors
For those considering a career in alcohol and drug counseling, Evangelia wholeheartedly encourages them to take the leap. She believes the journey is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling, as it offers opportunities to make a real impact on clients and their families. She also highlights the importance of listening, asking questions, being humble, and continuously learning to succeed in the field.
Success Stories
Evangelia shares two success stories that have deeply impacted her during her career. One involves a resistant probation client who, through the support of counseling, eventually graduated with honors and continued with mental health treatment. The other is about a difficult women’s prison group that she was able to connect with and help them graduate from the program. These stories demonstrate the power of persistence and empathy in alcohol and drug counseling.
Conclusion
Evangelia Kafcalas’ journey in the alcohol and drug counseling field is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. As she takes on her new role as a clinical coordinator at Intercoast Colleges, she aims to measure her success by the achievements of her students and the relationships she builds with internship sites. With more individuals like Evangelia joining the workforce, the future of alcohol and drug counseling looks bright and full of potential.
