Meet Cristina! Cristina began her career at Horizon in 2011 as a Residential Aid at our Horizon Village Campus. Now as a Clinical Onboarding Specialist II, Cristina has had many opportunities that have helped her with career growth. Continue reading to learn how Cristina has grown her career while at Horizon.
What is your “why” for working at Horizon?
I have maintained my career here at Horizon because I have been able to grow and develop, all while keeping my family a priority. My career at Horizon has evolved within the nearly 15 years I have worked here because I have had the pleasure of working with strong and supportive leaders, while discovering new opportunities the organization has to offer.
What opportunities has Horizon provided you that has helped you grow in your career?
I have had incredible supervisors throughout my Horizon career who have presented me with opportunities because they saw something in me. These supervisors have advocated for me and encouraged me to chase my dreams. I was a part of Horizon’s first ever Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) training cohort after a previous supervisor of mine tapped me on the shoulder and said, “this would be an amazing opportunity for you.” She was right – I loved being an EMDR therapist!
I had another co-worker/mentor inspire me to join the Clinical Attending Team at Horizon because she believed coaching and training new hires was a strength of mine. She helped me recognize this was where my true passion lies! Teaching new clinicians and supporting them throughout their onboarding process is incredibly fulfilling. Another supervisor recommended I attend leadership training courses after I expressed interest in growth and development in my position. This programming provided me with specific tools and skills to utilize when working directly with our new hires.
I have also been challenged to step out of my typical day-to-day duties and started to facilitate presentations in the organization. I have now been a presenter for three years in our leadership training series, teaching employees about communication, coaching, and presentation skills. Professional relationships have been key for my career here at Horizon, especially having supervisors and coworkers who are motivating me to grow!
How do you prioritize your well-being while also growing and developing in your career?
After my first maternity leave, I told my supervisor at the time I wanted to come back part time. This was unheard of for clinicians at the time, especially being an EMDR clinician, as there was a patient waitlist to receive these specialized services. My supervisor advocated for me and I was able to stay at the Tonawanda Clinic as a part-time clinician. This allowed me to prioritize my family while maintaining a career that I love. Working part-time has been crucial for myself and my family’s well-being and I am grateful I am able to maintain this status.
What would you say to someone who might be interested in growing their career with Horizon?
My advice would be to put effort into your professional relationships and trust your leaders. Communication is key – tell your supervisors what drives you, where your passion lies, and what fills your cup. This will help them advocate for you and present opportunities. Also, make sure to take advantage of the training opportunities and all Horizon has to offer!
Interested in joining an organization where you will be encouraged to grow? Click here to check out our available career opportunities!