Maria Carrano
Toms River, NJ
********@***.***
Professional Summary
Dedicated and compassionate Human Services professional with over a decade of experience in mental health counseling, direct support, and behavioral health services. Skilled in providing care and support to individuals with mental health disorders, autism, and developmental disabilities. Adept at administering medication, documentation, and assisting individuals with daily living activities in both residential and community settings. Experienced in hospice care and collaborating with healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support. Professional Experience
The Open Door of New Jersey
Direct Support Professional (DSP)
2024 - Present
• Worked in a group home setting providing overnight care and support.
• Assisted with ADLs and provided full physical assistance as needed.
• Administered medication, managed inventory, and documented using Therap and DropBox.
• Facilitated communication with administration through platforms like Remind.
• Prepared meals and supported individuals in maintaining independence at home and in the community.
Meek and Humble Inc.
Behavior Technician
2023 - 2024
• Provided in-home and community-based support for adults (21+) with developmental disabilities.
• Assisted individuals with ADLs, personal needs, shopping, and social activities.
• Encouraged individuals to live independent and fulfilling lifestyles through education and support.
PPP (Public Partnership) – Hospice Healthcare
Full-Time Hospice Caregiver
2022 - 2023
• Provided full-time, 24/7 caregiving for terminally ill father.
• Assisted with all ADLs, medication management, and personal care.
• Worked alongside doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals to ensure optimal care.
• Gained firsthand experience in palliative and end-of-life care, which led to working in DDD services.
Bright Harbor Healthcare
House Behaviorist and Mental Health Support Professional 2013 - 2021
• Developed and led an in-house day program for individuals with Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, Anxiety, and Depression.
• Conducted educational groups on mental health management, medication adherence, and symptom recognition.
• Organized community-based activities, including educational trips and food shopping.
• Documented client progress using Carelogic and maintained daily records.
• Prepared and served meals while facilitating meal planning with clients.
• Managed transportation logistics, including maintaining travel logs for company vehicles.
Education & Certifications
Kean University, Union, NJ
B.A. in Sociology (2010 - 2012)
Ocean County College, Toms River, NJ
A.A. in Science (2008 - 2010)
Certifications
• CPR & First Aid Certified
• Medication Administration Certification
Skills & Competencies
• Mental Health Counseling
• Behavioral Support
• Medication Administration
• ADL Assistance
• Documentation & Reporting (Therap, Carelogic, DropBox)
• Community Engagement
• Crisis Intervention
• Meal Preparation & Planning
• Transportation & Travel Log Management
• Strong Communication & Team Collaboration