Program Overview
The Developmental Service Worker program (DSW Program) at Westervelt College provides technical training for individuals looking for a rewarding career working with children, youth and adults who have developmental disabilities. Students will learn to give clients support and offer encouragement while promoting their mental, emotional and physical health. Graduates from the Developmental Service Worker Program serve and support individuals with developmental and physical disabilities and mental illnesses. They have the knowledge and skills to effectively interview, assess, assist, and counsel clients and their families. Developmental Service Workers facilitate life skills, promote health and wellbeing, encourage inclusive environments, and provide personal care for all clients with developmental disabilities. Westervelt’s Developmental Service Worker Program meets all Provincial Standardization guidelines and outcomes.
Program Courses
Graduates from the Developmental Service Worker program serve and support individuals with developmental and phyiscal disabilities and mental illnesses. They have the knowledge and skills to effectively interview, assess, assist and counsel clients and their families. Developmental Service Workers facilitate life skills, promote health and wellbeing, encourage inclusive environments, and provide personal care for all clients with developmental disabilities.
- Social Skills
- Philosophy of Support
- Intervention Strategies
- Teaching Skills
- First Aid/CPR
- Crisis Prevention Intervention
- Developmental Disabilities
- Dual Diagnosis
- Pharmacology
- Human Sexuality
- Development Psychology
- Health and Wellness
- Personal Care
- Community Building
- Augmentative Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Counselling Skills
- Externship
- Mastering the Attitude of Success (TPI MAS)
- Enriched Academy
- Introduction to Technology
- Abnormal Psychology
- Counseling Techniques
- Introduction to Developmental Disabilities and Teaching Strategies
- Concepts in Behavioural Management
- Pharmacology
- Record and Report Writing
- Family Dynamics
Areas of employment for Developmental Service Workers are:
- Educational Assistant
- Family Support
- Community Agencies
- Residential Agencies
- Community Organizations
- Program Supervision
- Private Sector Opportunities
- Transitional Services
Admission Requirements
- OSSD or equivalent successful completion of the qualifying entrance exam (available to mature students 18 years or older)
- Government Issued Photo ID
- Privacy of Personal Information (PIPEDA)
Practicum Requirements
- Proof of Criminal Record Check
- Statement of Satisfactory Heath Requirements
Program Details
Duration 48 Weeks
Program Type Diploma
Campuses Brantford, Kitchener
