Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

James Banks

Ballycastle,Antrim

Summary

Dedicated and compassionate Drug and Alcohol Worker with extensive experience in facilitating group programs to support individuals on their recovery journey. Passionate about creating safe, engaging, and empowering group environments that foster peer support, resilience, and long-term change. Skilled in delivering evidence-based interventions, motivational interviewing, and psychoeducation to diverse populations, ensuring sessions are dynamic, inclusive, and impactful. Adept at building strong rapport with clients, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and tailoring group work to meet individual and collective needs. Committed to continuous professional development and best practices in addiction recovery.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
year of post-secondary education

Work History

Recovery support worker

self employed
Belfast, Mid and East Antrim
06.2022 - Current
  • Delivered group therapy sessions under supervision developing communication skills among participants.
  • Handled sensitive information confidentially respecting privacy laws and ethical guidelines.
  • Kept abreast of current research in mental health recovery for up-to-date knowledge application in practice.


  • Demonstrated empathy, patience and resilience whilst dealing with challenging behaviours .
  • Developed personalised care plans to improve outcomes.

Recovery coach and group worker

Change Grow Live
Wirral, Merseyside
06.2018 - 08.2022

During my time with CGL I alternated between full time case worker for the opiate division and the Alcohol team also, whilst there i managed a case load of around 80 opiate clients and 40 alcohol. I worked with clients to develop personalized treatment plans and attend services on a weekly or biweekly basis and work towards goals regarding opioid use. I also worked with other professionals and organizations to provide comprehensive support and ensure clients receive the appropriate services and resources. My role on the Alcohol team was similar apart from I ran weekly groups. I also was employed by CGL as a full time group worker for the Alcohol team, this was and still is my preferred role as i enjoy interacting and witnessing changes that happen within a group setting.

Group & wellbeing worker

Phoenix futures
Skelmersdale, Lancashire
06.2014 - 06.2018
  • Delivered educational sessions on key wellbeing topics, enhancing knowledge and understanding.
  • Provided emotional support to individuals experiencing stress or personal crises, promoting resilience and coping mechanisms.
  • Regularly reviewed participant progress towards their wellness goals, making necessary adjustments where required.
  • Enhanced community interaction by planning and implementing various group activities.

Education

NVQ Level 3 - Addiction and Substance Misuse

Phoenix Futures
Liverpool
09.2015 - 05.2016

Skills

Skills & Expertise

  • Group Facilitation & Program Delivery – Skilled in designing and leading structured group sessions that promote recovery, resilience, and peer support
  • Addiction & Recovery Support – In-depth knowledge of substance use, harm reduction, relapse prevention, and recovery models
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Proficient in applying evidence-based approaches to encourage behavior change
  • Trauma-Informed Practice – Experienced in working with individuals affected by trauma, ensuring a safe and supportive group environment
  • Psychoeducation & Therapeutic Interventions – Able to deliver engaging educational content on addiction, coping strategies, and emotional regulation
  • Client Engagement & Relationship Building – Strong ability to foster trust, motivate participants, and create an inclusive group dynamic
  • Risk Assessment & Crisis Intervention – Experienced in identifying risks, managing disclosures, and providing appropriate interventions
  • Safeguarding & Confidentiality – Knowledge of policies and procedures to ensure client safety and maintain ethical standards
  • Team Collaboration & Multidisciplinary Work – Works effectively with healthcare professionals, social workers, and support services to provide holistic care
  • Case Documentation & Reporting – Competent in maintaining accurate records, progress notes, and evaluation reports in line with best practices

Timeline

Recovery support worker

self employed
06.2022 - Current

Recovery coach and group worker

Change Grow Live
06.2018 - 08.2022

NVQ Level 3 - Addiction and Substance Misuse

Phoenix Futures
09.2015 - 05.2016

Group & wellbeing worker

Phoenix futures
06.2014 - 06.2018
James Banks