After attending Canisius College for her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Medaille College for her graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling, Mallary joined the Horizon team in March of 2012. Since then, Mallary has served in various roles throughout the organization and is a valued member of the Horizon team. Now as a Horizon University Training Specialist, Mallary plays a key role in welcoming new team members and ensuring they are equipped with the tools needed to enter into their new roles.
Q&A with Mallary
What made you choose Horizon?
During my graduate school years, I obtained an internship with Horizon. At the time, I wasn’t exactly sure which population I wanted to serve for my career, but throughout my internship, I knew that I enjoyed the team members I worked with at Horizon and felt like I was a part of something greater. Once I graduated school and gained some experience in the behavioral health field, I returned to Horizon as an Outpatient Counselor. From day one, my co-workers were so helpful and welcoming, and the team environment was both challenging and fun. I chose Horizon because of the positive work culture and support I received from my supervisors and co-workers from the very beginning. At Horizon, everyone works hard, but also always finds way to laugh and have fun each day.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
Now as a Training Specialist for our Horizon University Department, I welcome newly hired staff and provide them with the training and support they need to begin their career at Horizon. This largely involves providing training on Horizon’s Electronic Health Record (EHR) system and reviewing documentation for clinical staff to evaluate their understanding of training content. On days that I don’t have a training, I spend my time preparing for upcoming trainings, updating and creating staff resources, and reviewing documentation.
What keeps you motivated in your role?
Throughout the various roles I’ve held at Horizon, I’ve always been motivated by the flexibility and autonomy I’ve had. As a counselor, I enjoyed customizing my own therapy techniques and learning new interventions to engage my patients. When I worked in our Quality Improvement Department, I reviewed clinical cases and provided feedback to align with best practices. Now, as a trainer, I have the power to be creative when it comes to teaching and implementing new resources and processes to support our team. No matter your interests and your role, there are opportunities to grow your career at Horizon. If a role isn’t meeting your needs, there’s room for conversations about how you can utilize your skills in a different way at the organization.
How has your education shaped your career?
College helped me learn more about my interests. Through my internship experiences while I was a student, I learned about what the day-to-day looks like in the behavioral health field and gained a better understanding of the populations I enjoy working with.
What is your favorite Horizon benefit/perk?
Horizon created a company-specific holiday called “Happy Horizon Day,” which is recognized each year in November. On this day, employees receive bonuses based on their healthcare insurance selections and their longevity with the company. Plus, it’s a day off! I look forward to this day each year and it’s so nice to receive something extra before the holidays.
Want to join a company that allows you to grow throughout your career? Join a Best Place to Work in NYS today! Please contact our Careers Team at Careers@horizon-health.org with any questions about kickstarting a rewarding career with Horizon.