The Developmental Services Worker (DSW) supports clients with dual diagnosis, developmental and complex mental health conditions by promoting safety, independence, dignity, and social, emotional, and cultural well-being. Working within an inter-professional team and under clinical direction, the DSW implements positive behavioral supports, facilitates activities of daily living (ADLs) and skill-building, contributes to clinical processes and groups, and maintains a safe, therapeutic milieu. The role includes behavioral observation and data collection, clinical documentation, and participation in program development and quality improvement. Rotating 12-hour shifts, weekends, and potential night shifts may be required.

Responsibilities

1) Client Support & Daily Living

- Provide person-centered support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and social-skills development.
- Accompany and escort clients to appointments, transfers, and programming as needed.
- Facilitate therapeutic and psycho-educational groups and contribute input to clinical processes.

2) Behavioral Support & Data

- Implement positive behavioral supports and functional assessment-informed plans under clinical/behavioral therapist direction.
- Conduct close or continuous observation when indicated; document behavioral observations and client responses to interventions.
- Collect, organize, and communicate monitoring and observational data consistently.

3) Safety, Milieu & Least-Restrictive Strategies

- Help maintain a secure, therapeutic milieu using least-restrictive strategies to prevent restraint and seclusion.




- Support de-escalation and crisis prevention/intervention in line with protocols.
- Contribute to security and environmental safety through therapeutic relationships and regulation of the physical space.

4) Collaboration & Communication

- Work collaboratively within inter-professional teams; participate in team reviews and case discussions.
- Communicate clearly and professionally (verbal and written) with clients, families, and team members.
- Support students at the college level, as assigned.

5) Documentation & Professional Standards

- Complete timely clinical documentation and other required records.
- Follow all regulatory, legislative, and organizational policies and procedures; uphold confidentiality and ethical standards.

6) Program Development, Quality & Education

- Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives and program development.
- Engage in ongoing learning related to behavioral treatment, person-centered planning, and recovery-oriented practices.

7) Work Conditions

- Work 12-hour rotating shifts, including weekends and potential nights, as assigned.
- Use secure patient-handling and ergonomic techniques at all times.

Qualifications





Requirements

- Developmental Services Worker (DSW) diploma from a recognized college.
- Direct experience with dual diagnosis (mental health and developmental disability).
- Competent understanding of behavioral treatment protocols (e.g., functional assessment, management techniques) and responsive-behavior approaches.
- Crisis prevention and intervention skills; consistent use of least-restrictive strategies.
- Demonstrated person-centered planning and ability to coordinate meaningful, recovery-enhancing activities.
- Strong therapeutic relationship and advocacy skills; experience with complex clients in a team approach.
- Effective verbal and written communication; strong interpersonal skills; attention to detail.
- Computer literacy for clinical documentation and communication.
- Ability to work respectfully with diverse ethno-cultural and socio-economic populations.
- Familiarity with secure patient handling/ergonomics and adherence to safety protocols.
- Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts, including weekends and potential nights.

Nice-to-Haves

- Familiarity with psychotropic medications and their implications for care.
- Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and First Aid certifications.
- Additional language skills (e.g., French/English bilingualism or other languages).

Salary Range: $32.36 – $38.68 per hour

At time of hire, CAMH will require all recent hires and rehires to provide proof of educational qualifications relevant to the posit

📌 Case Worker (Toronto)
🏢 CAMH
📍 Toronto