Russell Cardona
Corning,NY
Summary
Experienced Direct Support Counselor with 7+ years supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Skilled in person-centered planning, behavior support plans, care documentation, and medication administration, with a strong record of calm de-escalation and compassionate daily living support.
Overview
1
1
Certification
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Direct Support Counselor
ARC Of Chemung
Elmira, NY
04.2022 - Current
- Supported individuals with developmental disabilities at Arc of Chemung.
- Supported personal care, grooming, and daily living routines to enhance individual well-being.
- Monitored behavior and followed person-centered support plans.
- Used therapeutic interventions to reduce challenging behaviors.
- Facilitated appointments and community participation to promote social engagement and independence. to appointments and community activities.
- Documented care notes, incidents, and client observations to maintain accurate records for ongoing support.
- Maintained safe living spaces and reported hazards.
- Communicated with families, supervisors, and care teams.
- Built positive relationships through activities, outings, and social interaction.
Residence Counselor
Pathways Inc
Elmira, New York
04.2019 - 06.2022
- Facilitated residents' daily living routines and personal care needs to promote independence and well-being.
- Guided residents through hygiene, dressing, and grooming tasks.
- Utilized calm communication to de-escalate stressful situations for residents, enhancing their emotional stability.
- Administered medications according to prescriptions, ensuring adherence to treatment plans under RN supervision.
- Maintained cleanliness of living spaces, laundry, and shared household areas.
Crew Member
McDonalds
Elmira, New York
01.2018 - 04.2019
- Processed customer orders at the front counter, delivering efficient service to enhance customer experience.
- Assisted drive-thru customers with accurate order taking and handoff.
- Prepared McDonald’s menu items, ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards for customer satisfaction.
- Restocked ingredients, packaging, and supplies to support smooth restaurant operations.
- Cleaned dining area and kitchen surfaces, maintaining a hygienic environment to support health standards.
Education
GED -
Elmira Highschool
Elmira, NY08-2019
Skills
- Behavior support plans
- Person-centered planning
- Therapeutic interventions
- Medication administration
- Care documentation practices
- Incident reporting
- Developmental disabilities care
Certification
- CPR
Timeline
Direct Support Counselor
ARC Of Chemung
04.2022 - Current
Residence Counselor
Pathways Inc
04.2019 - 06.2022
Crew Member
McDonalds
01.2018 - 04.2019
GED -
Elmira Highschool