Weddingbee boards

I'm trying to focus on writing good cover letters and I could really use another pair of eyes. Anyone bored and want to read something? :) (note that the job posting requested that the cover letter discuss relevant background and future goals).

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am writing to apply for the position of Parent Educator, which is listed on xxx.  I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and I have experience working with adults, children, and families dealing with mental health issues.  With my clinical skills and my knowledge of child development and social services, I believe that I would be a strong addition to your organization.  

I was drawn to this position because of my own experiences and background in working with children and families. While at Y College, I minored in Education and Child Studies, and also spent a semester abroad in the Danish Institute for Study Abroad’s Child Diversity and Development Program.  While at Z Grad School, I interned at XYZ. and worked with young children with emotional disturbances and their families. While working with about five children over two semesters, I was able to reduce episodes of behavioral aggression and increase cooperation both at home and at school. This position also allowed me to work closely with the children’s parents. I focused on increasing the parents’ feelings of confidence about their parenting abilities while also helping them practice specific behavior management skills. I believe that parental involvement is essential in ensuring that children grow up to be happy, healthy adolescents and adults. By working with both the children and their parents, I was able to help them improve their overall functioning both as individuals and as familial unit. I feel that this experience would be valuable in working with at-risk children and parents. It was also through this position that I developed an interest and a passion in working with children and their families, and I hope to have the opportunity to continue to work with this population in a non-profit setting. Specifically, I am interested in working with Early Intervention programs or other agencies that provide support, counseling, and education to children and families in need.

As my resume shows, I also have additional experience in counseling adults with mental health and substance abuse issues.  During my time at MMM, I worked with mentally ill adults and provided rehabilitative services to them in their homes and in the community. My clients had a wide range of DSM Axis I and II diagnoses, including schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. This position required me to be flexible and creative, as many of my clients did not respond to traditional counseling methods. I was able to hone my clinical and counseling skills through writing assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes.

Based on the ABC Foundation’s and my own commitment to helping children and families, I believe that I would be a good fit for the role of Parent Educator. I would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you to discuss my potential for obtaining this position. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Hilsy, LMHC

@Phantom: Thanks! And yes, for some reason the 2nd paragraph looks massive on here, but really isn't that bad in Word, lol. 

@Treejewel19: Thank you! :) Always good to have the opinin of someone who looks at many cover letters!