Kathy Mundy

Kathy's path to becoming a rehabilitation professional

I graduated with a double degree in Psychology/Sociology. I realized I would need to obtain a master's. I was fortunate enough to have gotten a student stipend in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling through the University of N. Colorado. I immediately went into the field as a Vocational Evaluator, working at a comprehensive rehabilitation facility. I have always tried to keep abreast of the most recent developments in the field and have contiued learning every year I have been in this field. It has been a most rewarding career. There should never be burn out in a field so wide open to options.

I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology/Sociology. I have a Master's degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from a C.O.R.E. accredited school. I have maintained certifications as a C.R.C.C., C.D.M.S., C.C.M., and C.L.C.P.

I had been in corporate management for 12 and 1/2 years in El Paso prior to opening my own practice in 1999. I had previously worked in Colorado.

A couple of the more notable would be actually having a home totally modified for a C-3 tetraplegic and providing a modified van for the family. This has happened on several occasions versus just putting forth the recommendations for such. Secondly, I have seen an extremely wounded Border Patrol Agent return to work after gun shot wounds took away his feeling in his right hand. He fought many a battle to regain total use of the hand against what his treating physician would believe. I have returned to work an injured federal worker after 17 years of being on Worker's Compensation.

I have always been outgoing from the time I was small and in dance. I have also enjoyed music. Both activities put me up on stage to perform. I was never considered shy; thus the love of the forensic portion of my work. I thoroughly enjoy speaking to various groups and have done so on many occasions. I am enjoying mentoring an associate in this business presently.

I live in a fairly isolated area; albeit a population of 750,000 and bordering Mexico which is approximately two million people. I have gained many professional friends throughout the country through IARP. I had been a member since 1987 and only briefly dropped my membership (1997 - 1999) while in a chance of management positions. This is a tremendous resource center for me.

Be open to change. Be available for continuing your education throughout your career. Learn to multi-task and never put all of your eggs in one basket; ie. one general referral source. Be willing to share your knowledge where applicable. Be generous with your skills and talents. Always uphold the integrity of the organization of IARP.