Vivian Richards is a dedicated PRN Social Worker at UAB Medicine's Center for Psychiatric Medicine, where she leverages her extensive background as a third-generation social worker to make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients. With a decade of experience in healthcare and mental...
Vivian Richards is a dedicated PRN Social Worker at UAB Medicine's Center for Psychiatric Medicine, where she leverages her extensive background as a third-generation social worker to make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients. With a decade of experience in healthcare and mental healthcare settings, Vivian is committed to minimizing barriers to access care, particularly for vulnerable populations such as adolescents and older adults. Her role involves not only direct patient interaction but also the development and implementation of innovative training programs for social work interns, ensuring that the next generation of social workers is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the field.
At UAB Medicine, Vivian facilitates an average of 5-10 psychoeducational and processing groups each week, creating a supportive environment where patients can explore their mental health challenges and develop coping strategies. She has also designed holiday-themed psychoeducational content tailored specifically for the adolescent unit, demonstrating her ability to engage young patients in meaningful ways. Collaborating closely with primary social workers and counselors, Vivian provides essential support and coverage, ensuring continuity of care and enhancing the overall therapeutic environment.
Her expertise extends to various critical areas, including Medicaid navigation, harm reduction strategies, and end-of-life care, all of which are essential in addressing the complex needs of her patients. Vivian’s proficiency in documentation and use of collaborative tools like Slack enhances communication and efficiency within the team. Through her multifaceted role, Vivian Richards exemplifies the vital contributions of social work in psychiatric medicine, advocating for patient-centered care and fostering resilience in those she serves.