Maria Sebastian
Peterborough,ON
Summary
Dynamic Housing Support Worker with a proven track record at Fourcast, skilled in crisis management, Substance use and addiction counseling and case management. Successfully developed individualized housing plans, enhancing client self-sufficiency. Adept at utilizing motivational interviewing techniques to empower clients, ensuring effective communication and support in achieving housing stability.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Housing Support Worker
Fourcast
02.2024 - Current
- Coordinated housing assessments to identify client needs and appropriate resources.
- Developed individualized housing plans to enhance client stability and self-sufficiency.
- Facilitated communication between clients and service providers to streamline support services.
- Monitored client progress toward housing goals, adjusting strategies as needed for effectiveness.
- Assisted in crisis intervention by assessing immediate housing needs and connecting clients with emergency resources.
- Assisted clients in understanding their rights and responsibilities as tenants, promoting healthy landlord-tenant relationships.
Shelter Counselor
Women's Resources of Kawartha Lakes.
01.2024 - 11.2025
- Provided counseling services to individuals facing emotional and psychological challenges.
- Developed personalized action plans to support clients' goals and improve mental health.
- Assisted clients in setting realistic goals, developing action plans, and monitoring progress towards achievement.
- Maintained accurate documentation of client interactions, assessments, and progress notes for effective case management.
- Educated clients on available community resources, fostering a sense of empowerment and selfsufficiency.
Shelter Worker
YES Shelter for Youth and Families
04.2021 - 02.2024
- Provided crisis intervention and emotional support to at-risk youth and families.
- Facilitated group discussions to promote conflict resolution and interpersonal skills.
- Addressed crisis situations with sensitivity, utilizing conflict resolution skills to maintain a safe environment for all parties involved.
- Conducted valuable life skills workshops, empowering clients with tools needed for independent living after transitioning out of the shelter setting.
- Improved shelter residents'' mental well-being by conducting regular emotional support sessions and group activities.
Intervenor
DeafBlind Ontario Services
04.2020 - 02.2023
- Supported individuals with DeafBlindness in daily living activities and communication needs.
- Facilitated access to community resources and social engagement opportunities.
- Advocated for client rights and needs within various service systems and environments.
- Developed strong rapport with each client by tailoring communication methods according to their specific preferences or limitations.
Education
No Degree - Motivational Interviewing
Psychwire
10-2025
No Degree - Social Service Worker Diploma
Fleming College
Peterborough, Ontario04-2020
Skills
- Affordable Housing Knowledge
- Case management
- Homelessness solutions
- Crisis management
- De-escalation techniques
- Youth advocacy
- Motivational interviewing
- Substance use and addictions
Languages
English
Full Professional
Hindi
Full Professional
Malayalam
Professional Working
Certification
Motivational Interviewing
Addiction and substance use
NVCI
First Aid and CPR
Timeline
Housing Support Worker
Fourcast
02.2024 - Current
Shelter Counselor
Women's Resources of Kawartha Lakes.
01.2024 - 11.2025
Shelter Worker
YES Shelter for Youth and Families
04.2021 - 02.2024
Intervenor
DeafBlind Ontario Services
04.2020 - 02.2023
No Degree - Motivational Interviewing
Psychwire
No Degree - Social Service Worker Diploma
Fleming College
Motivational Interviewing
I have achieved my Motivational Interviewing certificate from psychwire and have implemented it throughout my client interactions and counseling sessions regularly.