Sarah Pestana
Franklin
Summary
Master’s LMHC student at Merrimack College with extensive experience working with children and supporting individuals through emotional and behavioral challenges. Currently employed as a Behavior Therapist, skilled in creating compassionate, evidence-based interventions and building trusting relationships. Seeking an internship to expand clinical knowledge, enhance therapeutic skills, and continue professional growth to become an effective, empathetic licensed mental health counselor.
Overview
3
3
year of professional experience
Work History
Behavior Therapist
Key Autism Services
Medway
08.2025 - Current
- Implemented behavior intervention plans for children with autism.
- Assisted in developing individualized treatment strategies for clients.
- Observed and documented client progress during therapy sessions.
- Collaborated with families to reinforce therapeutic techniques at home.
- Utilized data collection methods to track behavioral changes effectively.
- Created engaging activities to promote social skills and communication.
- Maintained a safe and supportive environment for clients during sessions.
- Maintained objective session notes and accurate records to organize, model and review behavior as well as progress information.
Assistant Teacher
The Goddard School For Early Childhood Development
Bellingham
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted in daily classroom activities and maintained a positive learning environment.
- Supported lead teacher in preparing educational materials and lesson plans.
- Engaged children in play-based learning to enhance social and cognitive skills.
- Monitored student behavior and provided guidance to promote respectful interactions.
- Communicated with parents regarding student progress and classroom events effectively.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of classroom supplies and learning areas.
- Collaborated with staff to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere for children.
Education
Master of Arts - LMHC
Merrimack College
North Andover, MA05-2027
Bachelor of Arts - Human Development Human Services
Merrimack College
North Andover, MA05-2025
Skills
- Behavior intervention
- Client assessment
- Individualized treatment
- Data collection
- Collaborative communication
- Engagement strategies
- Progress documentation
- Social skills development
- Applied behavior analysis
- Verbal behavior approach
- Social skills training
- Developmental delays experience
- Prompting strategies
- Collaborative Problem-solving
- Coping skills development
- Emotional regulation support
- Crisis intervention strategies
Accomplishments
Cum Laude
Timeline
Behavior Therapist
Key Autism Services
08.2025 - Current
Assistant Teacher
The Goddard School For Early Childhood Development
05.2025 - 08.2025
Master of Arts - LMHC
Merrimack College
Bachelor of Arts - Human Development Human Services
Merrimack College