Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Jessica Castro

Paducah,KY

Summary

Compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional with extensive experience at Progressive Directions Inc. Skilled in medication administration and behavior redirection, I have successfully enhanced client independence and well-being. My proactive approach in crisis intervention and documentation has consistently improved care quality and fostered positive outcomes for individuals with disabilities.

Overview

2026
2026
years of professional experience

Work History

Direct Support Professional

Progressive Directions Inc.
09.2011 - 09.2025
  • Maintained clean, safe, and well-organized patient environment.
  • Documented progress notes thoroughly to track client achievements, concerns, or changes in behavior patterns that may need attention from the interdisciplinary team.
  • Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
  • Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
  • Enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing compassionate and consistent direct support.
  • Assisted clients in achieving personal goals through tailored care plans and daily skill-building activities.
  • Supported clients with personal care tasks, ensuring their dignity and privacy were maintained at all times.
  • Enhanced communication skills of non-verbal clients using alternative communication devices.
  • Administered medication under supervision, ensuring adherence to healthcare plans.
  • Facilitated social outings and community integration activities, promoting inclusion and positive experiences for clients.
  • Addressed emergency situations calmly and effectively, prioritizing the safety of both clients and staff members involved.
  • Transported clients to medical and dental appointments to provide support.
  • House Manager duties which included training new staff on best practices in direct support, elevating overall quality of care provided.

Developmental Disability Aide

Riverside Foundation
2008 - 2011
  • Enhanced patient mobility through safe transfer techniques and proper use of assistive devices.
  • Delivered exceptional care in accordance with established policies and procedures, adhering to professional standards of practice within the disability support field.
  • Promoted independence among patients by teaching self-care skills and assisting with adaptive equipment.
  • Assisted patients with personal hygiene tasks, maintaining dignity and respect during sensitive care routines.
  • Provided compassionate and patient-focused care to cultivate well-being.

Special Needs Teaching Assistant

Keshet Day School
2003 - 2007
  • Supported students during transitions between activities, ensuring a smooth and efficient learning experience throughout the day.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students with cognitive, physical, or emotional disabilities, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
  • Tracked student progress through ongoing assessments, adjusting instructional methods accordingly for optimal results.
  • Fostered a sense of community within the classroom by encouraging collaboration, teamwork, and respect among students.

Education

Certified Medical Assistant -

Career Academy
Chicago, IL
01-2002

High School Diploma -

Taft High School
Chicago, IL
05-1997

Skills

  • Time management
  • First aid and CPR
  • Behavior redirection
  • Client support
  • Medication administration
  • Behavioral management
  • Decision-making support
  • Transportation
  • Disability awareness
  • Compassionate client care
  • Multitasking and organization
  • Documentation and recordkeeping

Timeline

Direct Support Professional

Progressive Directions Inc.
09.2011 - 09.2025

Developmental Disability Aide

Riverside Foundation
2008 - 2011

Special Needs Teaching Assistant

Keshet Day School
2003 - 2007

Certified Medical Assistant -

Career Academy

High School Diploma -

Taft High School