Direct Support Professional - Social Service Worker

Samikshya Sharma

Orangeville, ON 437-***-**** ****************@*****.***

Professional Summary

Compassionate Social Service Worker graduate with hands-on experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, seniors, children, and other vulnerable populations. Skilled in person-centred support, behaviour observation and de-escalation, personal care, and promoting independence in daily living. Experienced in encouraging community participation, supporting routines and life skills, documenting client progress, and collaborating with families and interdisciplinary teams. Seeking a Direct Support Professional role with Community Living Dufferin to help individuals build independence, strengthen community connections, and achieve meaningful personal goals. Education

Georgian College – Orangeville, ON

Social Service Worker Diploma

April 2025

Professional Experience

Private Home Care – Intellectual Disability Support Caledon, ON Support Worker October 2024 – June 2025

• Delivered one-on-one person-centred support to an adult with an intellectual disability in a home setting, adapting care to individual goals, preferences, and routines.

• Assisted with personal care, hygiene, mobility, and daily living tasks while promoting dignity, choice, and independence.

• Supported skill development through encouragement with routines, self-care, and participation in household and community activities.

• Provided medication reminders and monitored well-being, reporting changes in health, mood, or behaviour to family members as needed.

• Used calm, respectful communication to build trust, reduce anxiety, and support positive daily interactions.

• Maintained a safe, inclusive environment and followed individualized support strategies. VON Alzheimer’s Adult Day Program – Orangeville, ON Student Placement – Adult Day Care Support 2024

• Supported seniors with dementia and cognitive challenges through person-centred engagement, emotional reassurance, and structured daily programming.

• Used validation, redirection, and de-escalation strategies to respond to distress and support positive behaviour.

• Observed, documented, and communicated client behaviours, needs, and participation to support individualized care planning.

• Assisted with recreational and cognitive activities that promoted social inclusion, engagement, and quality of life.

• Worked collaboratively with staff, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to provide consistent support.

Little Wonder Daycare – Orangeville, ON

Childcare Assistant September 2024 – June 2025

• Supported children with diverse developmental, emotional, and behavioural needs in a structured and inclusive environment.

• Used behavioural observation and positive guidance strategies to encourage self- regulation, communication, and appropriate social interaction.

• Assisted children with transitions, routines, and daily activities to promote independence and confidence.

• Helped create a safe, supportive setting that respected each child’s strengths, needs, and abilities.

• Communicated effectively with families and team members to support consistent care and behaviour approaches.

Caring for Seniors – Orangeville, ON

Personal Support Worker July 2024 – October 2024

• Assisted seniors with personal hygiene, meals, mobility, and daily living tasks while maintaining dignity and respect.

• Provided compassionate emotional support and encouraged independence wherever possible.

• Monitored and reported changes in client condition to support timely care and safety.

• Maintained accurate documentation and followed professional care practices and boundaries.

Montana’s BBQ & Bar – Orangeville, ON

Line Cook July 2025 – Present

• Worked effectively in a fast-paced team environment while maintaining safety, organization, and quality standards.

• Demonstrated reliability, adaptability, and strong time management in a busy workplace.

• Maintained cleanliness and followed health and safety procedures consistently. Key Skills

• Person-Centred Support

• Developmental Services Support

• Intellectual Disability Support

• Community Inclusion & Participation

• Behaviour Support & Positive Guidance

• De-escalation & Crisis Prevention

• Daily Living Skills Support

• Personal Care & Hygiene Assistance

• Independence Building

• Observation & Incident Reporting

• Medication Reminders

• Mobility Assistance

• Team Collaboration

• Family & Caregiver Communication

• Cultural Competency

Certifications

• First Aid & CPR Certified

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training

• Member, Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) Volunteer Experience

Community Volunteer

• Supported outreach initiatives for seniors, families, and vulnerable populations.

• Assisted with community events promoting inclusion, accessibility, and well-being.

• Supported individuals through respectful communication and community engagement.

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