Esther Joy Mbayo

What is the biggest challenge for me when working as a Caregiver / Direct Support Professional (or what do you think it will be), and what have you done about it/what are you going to do about it?

One challenge is navigating the emotional weight that can come from working closely with individuals who face developmental barriers. I’ve learned to balance empathy with emotional intelligence by maintaining strong personal boundaries, practicing self-care, and leaning on faith and mentorship to recharge and stay grounded. I believe in showing up fully present without burnout.

What is the biggest challenge for me when working as a Caregiver / Direct Support Professional (or what do you think it will be), and what have you done about it/what are you going to do about it?

One challenge is navigating the emotional weight that can come from working closely with individuals who face developmental barriers. I’ve learned to balance empathy with emotional intelligence by maintaining strong personal boundaries, practicing self-care, and leaning on faith and mentorship to recharge and stay grounded. I believe in showing up fully present without burnout.

What makes me good for a position like this?

I bring seven years of experience rooted in patience, trustworthiness, and intentional care. I’m CPR-certified, adaptable under pressure, and I take initiative naturally. More than anything, I lead with love. I treat every person with dignity and approach every shift as a calling not just a job.

Do i have any experience working with people with developmental disabilities?

Yes, I have extensive experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in both home and residential settings. I’ve assisted with activities of daily living, medication management, behavior support plans, and emotional regulation techniques. I’ve built trust with clients and their families by being consistent, kind, and professional at all times. I value dignity and respect in every interaction.

• Adapted therapy materials as needed to meet the unique needs of each individual client, ensuring optimal engagement during sessions.
• Worked as part of collaborative team to address changing needs of children and families.
• Assessed client progress regularly, adjusting intervention strategies as needed to ensure continued growth and development.
• Assisted in the creation of visual supports and schedules for clients, enhancing daily routines and transitions.
• Documented interventions, assessments and progress reports on database to enable tracking history and maintain consistent records.
• Facilitated social skills development in group settings, fostering improved peer interactions.

• Provided one-on-one support to clients with autism spectrum disorders, addressing unique behavioral needs.
• Implemented crisis intervention strategies when necessary to maintain a safe environment for both staff and clients alike during high-stress situations.
• Enhanced client progress by implementing individualized behavior intervention plans.
• Promoted positive behaviors by reinforcing desired actions and effectively addressing challenging issues.
• Assisted in data collection and analysis, contributing to the ongoing evaluation of client progress.
• Developed and implemented reinforcement systems to encourage positive behaviors.
• Maintained detailed records of client behaviors and interventions, ensuring accurate tracking of progress over time.
• Developed strong rapport with clients and their families, fostering trust and open communication throughout the therapeutic process.
• Observed, monitored and recorded problem behaviors through accurate behavior-consequence data collection, graphs, and anecdotal notes.
• Improved client communication skills through the use of evidence-based practices and techniques.
• Monitored client progress to provide continued guidance and consistent feedback to families.
• Trained clients to apply appropriate social skills and behavior modification techniques.

• Assisted clients with activities of daily living, promoting independence and quality of life.
• Cleaned house, ran errands, managed laundry, and completed weekly grocery shopping.
• Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
• Performed light housekeeping duties to maintain cleanliness standards while respecting the patient''s personal space.
• Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
• Built strong relationships with clients to deliver emotional support and companionship.
• Engaged patients in meaningful conversation, socialization, and activity while providing personal care assistance.
• Maintained a safe and clean environment for patients, reducing risks and ensuring optimal health outcomes.
• Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
• Assisted patients with self-administered medications.
• Contributed to a positive atmosphere for patients by using effective communication and active listening skills.
• Provided safe mobility support to help patients move around personal and public spaces.