Developmental Services Worker

The Developmental Services Worker program (Disability Support) focuses on providing practical and meaningful support to people of all ages with intellectual, physical and learning disabilities to achieve their goals by inspiring, advocating and promoting inclusion.

The Developmental Services Worker program focuses on providing support to people with various intellectual disabilities, such as Down Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and neurocognitive disorders, learning disabilities and/or physical disabilities. Graduates have the knowledge, skills and attitudes that include – and exceed – compassionate caring to support the empowerment of people with disabilities, while providing leadership in promoting social inclusion and helping people accomplish their goals and reach their dreams. Students in this program also develop an understanding of the past, present and future of developmental services in Ontario and how it impacts the current lives of individuals and families.

This two–year Ontario College diploma program is designed to provide the specialized skills required for professionals who make a difference every day in the lives of children, youth and adults who have disabilities as well as their support network at home, and in the community, (school, recreation, mental health and addictions, justice supports, employment support and more). Students also learn a variety of alternative communication options to support the needs of the people they work with. Developmental Services Workers maintain and promote their professional values such as social justice, empowerment, dignity, self-worth, the importance of healthy human relationships, and integrity.

Career Opportunities

• Mental health/Dual Diagnosis
• Self-employment through individualized funding
• Facilitating Person-Directed Planning
• Educational Support in primary, secondary and post-secondary schools
• Employment supports
• Community inclusion initiatives and teaching life skills
• Residential supports
• Behavioural supports
• Various camps