Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Amanda Walkowiak

Vancouver,WA

Summary

Direct Support Professional with proven ability to quickly master new skills and adapt to diverse client needs. Experienced in developing and implementing personalized care plans that enhance client dignity and independence. Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills contribute to positive community interactions and improved quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Reliable and compassionate approach ensures effective support in challenging environments.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Hope Human Services
01.2025 - Current
  • Provided compassionate, hands-on support to autistic children with extreme behaviors, ensuring a safe and structured environment.
  • Trained in Ukeru block pad techniques, effectively utilizing nonviolent crisis intervention strategies to prevent harm.
  • Certified in First Response and First Aid, responding quickly to medical and behavioral emergencies.
  • Managed crisis behaviors in the moment, using de-escalation techniques and positive behavior supports to maintain safety.
  • Accurately documented daily activities, behavioral incidents, and progress reports to ensure compliance with individualized care plans.
  • Assisted with daily living activities, communication development, and community integration.
  • Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to implement and adjust behavior intervention plans.

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT)

Helping Hearts
Phoenix, AZ
08.2024 - 12.2024
  • Conducted one-on-one client interactions to provide support and assess individual needs.
  • Facilitated daily house groups three times per day, focusing on coping strategies, interpersonal skills, and independent living skills.
  • Supported residents in achieving personal goals and fostering positive mental health practices.
  • Initially joined as an intern; recognized for strong performance and promoted to House-Based Specialist, taking on a floating role between multiple houses.
  • Led group sessions across various locations, ensuring consistency in program delivery and individualized care.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create and implement personalized care plans for residents.
  • Obtained State licensing for Personal Care Services for the state of Arizona.

Operational Manager

Chick-fil-A
Mount Pleasant, SC
05.2018 - 08.2024
  • Oversaw meal preparation and monitored food handling to encourage safety.
  • Motivated kitchen staff by establishing goals to increase productivity and quality.
  • Trained workers in food preparation, safety standards, money handling and cleaning roles to facilitate restaurant operations.
  • Developed new and rising leaders in how to manage their lives inside and outside of work.
  • Successfully worked at multiple locations across Chick-fil-a consistently earning promotions to management roles due to strong leadership and performance.

Team Lead Coach

GEICO
Virginia Beach, VA
12.2021 - 05.2023
  • Instructed new team members on correct procedures for operations.
  • Provided constructive feedback and one-on-one coaching to employees.
  • Provided written evaluations of employee performance to management.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Counseling and Applied Psychology

Arizona State University
05.2025

Skills

  • Policy and procedure development
  • Crisis intervention strategies
  • Behavior modification techniques
  • Client assessment skills
  • Group facilitation expertise
  • First aid certification
  • Customer service excellence
  • Active listening skills
  • Leadership development

References

  • Jose Esquivel, Clinical House Manager for Helping Hearts, 602-509-4589
  • Jerry Walkowiak, Operational Partner for Chick-fil-A, 843-637-9650
  • Assunta Torezala, Clinical Medical Manager Helping Hearts, 631-708-6547

Certification

  • First Aid & CPR Certified

Timeline

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Hope Human Services
01.2025 - Current

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT)

Helping Hearts
08.2024 - 12.2024

Team Lead Coach

GEICO
12.2021 - 05.2023

Operational Manager

Chick-fil-A
05.2018 - 08.2024

Bachelor of Science - Counseling and Applied Psychology

Arizona State University

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