SHINICE SUTHERLAND
Mississauga,ON
Summary
Experienced clinical applied behaviour analyst supervisor with a trauma-informed approach, specializing in addressing challenging behaviors such as aggression and self-injury. Proven expertise in training and mentoring staff to deliver high-quality care and in the strategic hiring and recruitment of top-notch professionals. Committed to optimizing treatment outcomes while fostering a safe and empathetic environment for clients and team members.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Clinical Project Manager
Progressive Steps Training & Consultation (A-Team)
05.2023 - Current
- Responsible for hiring, interviewing, training and in some cases terminating staff members
- Collaborated closely with the client's interdisciplinary team, including psychiatrists, BCBAs, and medical professionals, to ensure coordinated and holistic care.
- Led crisis management efforts and provided timely and appropriate interventions to maintain a safe and supportive environment for the client and staff.
- Conducted regular team meetings, and handled all staff and client concerns.
- Created schedules for the group home, to ensure the client had staff 24/7.
- Trained staff in crisis intervention techniques, physical safety procedures, and best practices in working with individuals with ASD and challenging behaviors.
- Demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment among the team.
- Conducted various behaviour assessments, wrote progress reports, utilized organization behaviour management (OBM) to impact staff's behaviour and performance
- Conducted and followed up on staff's performance using behaviour analytic evidence based strategies for supervision
Senior Behaviour Therapist
Progressive Step Training & Consultation (A-Team)
10.2022 - 05.2023
- Led and trained 16 staff members in providing individualized behavior therapy to an adult with aggressive and self-injurious behaviors.
- Conducted comprehensive functional behavior assessments to identify underlying causes of self-injury and developed tailored behavior intervention plans (BIPs).
- Successfully reduced self-injurious behaviors in clients by implementing evidence-based interventions and tracking progress over time.
- Trained and supervised staff in implementing behavior intervention plans, ensuring fidelity to therapeutic techniques and safety protocols.
- Coordinated and facilitated regular team meetings to discuss client progress, share insights, and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, including neurologists, psychiatrists, and medical professionals, to provide holistic care for client.
- Conducted ongoing data collection and analysis to monitor treatment effectiveness and make data-driven decisions for treatment modifications.
- Acted as a liaison between client, caregivers, and support agencies, ensuring clear communication and adherence to treatment goals.
- Provided crisis intervention and de-escalation support as needed to maintain a safe environment for clients and staff.
- Mentored and trained new behavior therapists, contributing to the professional growth and development of team members.
- Stayed current latest research and best practices in applied behavior analysis and applied this knowledge to improve client outcomes.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date client records, including progress notes, behavior plans, and incident reports.
- Demonstrated a commitment to ethical and trauma-informed care in all interactions with clients and their families.
Behaviour Technician
Lake Ridge Community Support Services
09.2021 - 03.2022
- Assisted in behaviour support plan reviews in accordance with Quality Assurance Measures (QAM)
- Collected and graphed behaviour data through Excel and manually.
- Provided parent training and using the mediator model and behaviour skills training (BST).
- Worked with multiple clients using the PEAK assessment tool.
- Attended clinical meetings with parents, clients, caregivers, support staff, case workers etc.
- Conducted relevant research for behaviour analytic interventions based on the individual needs of the client.
- Provided behaviour analytic services for clients while maintaining confidentially and ethics.
- Implemented evidence-based interventions based on the principles of ABA
- Consistently monitored and revised programs with a supervisor when required based on the client's progress.
- Collected restricted and unrestricted BCBA supervision experience hours.
Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT)
New Haven Learning Center
12.2018 - 01.2020
- Implemented behavior intervention plans (BIPs) designed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to address the needs of individuals with autism and other developmental disorders.
- Provided one-on-one therapy sessions to clients, utilizing applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques to teach communication skills, social skills, and daily living skills.
- Collected and analyzed data on client progress, adjusting intervention strategies as needed to achieve targeted goals and objectives.
- Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including BCBAs, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to therapy.
- Conducted functional behavior assessments (FBAs) to identify the underlying causes of challenging behaviors and developed appropriate behavior support plans.
- Supported clients in generalization and maintenance of newly acquired skills across different environments and with various individuals.
- Assisted in the development and implementation of skill acquisition programs tailored to each client's individualized treatment plan.
- Trained and provided guidance to parents and caregivers on ABA techniques and strategies for consistent application outside of therapy sessions.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date client records, including session notes, behavior data, and progress reports.
- Collaborated with colleagues to conduct team meetings and share insights on client progress and treatment strategies.
- Ensured the safety and well-being of clients during therapy sessions, employing crisis intervention techniques when necessary.
- Demonstrated a compassionate and patient demeanor when working with clients, fostering a positive and supportive therapeutic relationship.
- Complied with ethical guidelines and professional standards in all interactions and interventions.
Client Program Facilitator
Mindforward
01.2018 - 11.2019
- Transitional Residence for Specialized Learning (TRSL) a residential site for adults with acquired brain injuries under PHD ABIS
- Trained at WEST residential home for clients with severe problem behaviours and aggressive behaviours
- Trained in various populations in day services, seniors with ABI’s, residential homes, respite programs, and community outings
- Collected various types of behavioural data
- Created and implemented behaviour protocols and token economies for clients
- Recorded activities of daily living into electronic logs
- Calculated compliance rates of behaviours
- Created behaviour management plans such as token economies, reinforcement schedules and alternative behaviours (DRA, DRO, DRL etc.)
- Engaged in de-escalation tactics with clients
- Thoroughly reviewed behaviour management protocols for each client as well as individual service plans for each client with Team Leaders
- Trained in Safe management crisis intervention
Instructor Therapist
Alphabee
05.2018 - 11.2018
- Therapist to children providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI)
- Utilized programs from various assessments including ABLLS-R, VB-MAPP, as well as Francesca Espinosa’s curriculum, and the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) curriculum for younger children
- Collected data on programs and ABC data on behaviours
- Communicated with Senior Therapist and Clinical Supervisors regarding clients and programming
- Graphed data weekly and monitoring results
- Implemented behavioural interventions following the functions of behaviour
- Attended monthly team meetings
- Trained and assisted parents on ABA techniques and tips to further generalization and compliance in the natural setting
- Provided both in center and home therapy for children diagnosed with ASD
Instructor Therapist
Hope Autism Services
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Instructor therapist to children providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI), Behavior Modification, and Individualized Educational Programs
- Created and utilized the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) with clients and parents
- Created a welcoming, and caring atmosphere to ensure the needs of clients while maintaining confidentiality and ensuring the child’s needs are met
- Assisted clients in various settings; circle time, snack time, work and play
- Assisted in assessments: ABLLS-R and VB-MAPP assessments
- Collected behavior data, teaching and implementing programs with ABA and IBI methods
Vocational Assistant (intern)
Career Quest Learning Center
09.2016 - 01.2017
- Job searching and planning for clients on WSIB.
- Trained in Marking the Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT).
- Helped clients with physical limitations to find meaningful jobs that accommodate their limitations.
- Taught clients computer skills such as Microsoft (Excel, Word, PowerPoint etc.) to enhance their resumes and work skills.
- Supported non-native English-speaking clients by conducting practice interviews and providing assistance during actual interviews when necessary.
- Conducted meetings with clients to discuss accommodations, issues, concerns regarding their placement and other arising information.
- Generated and reviewed client case files and reports of progress and assessments for the vocational therapist.
- Reassuring the safety and accommodations for clients on WSIB within their employment/placements, ensuring their limitations are respected within the workplace.
- Site visits of clients working within their placements and evaluations on placement expectations.
Executive Director of Services (YUBSA)
York University
11.2015 - 09.2016
- York-United Black Students Alliance (YUBSA) is a non-profit, association founded in 1996 to unite and empower black students on campus.
- Attend weekly meetings and recorded minutes for issues discussed.
- Provided a safe, and comfortable space for students of African/Caribbean Descent to print, study, and engage.
- Hosted events to counteract racism on campus including events like: Literacy for learning, Know Your Rights, Black-Out, Beautiful Wee, Still I Rise.
- Maintained the office space, and the cleanliness while enforcing and maintaining the goals and mission statement of YUBSA.
- Provided students with resources to improve in school, peer assisted tutoring, newsletters, distribution of programs and brochures to help students succeed
- Collected food drive items, and provided students with small non-perishable goods, in times of need.
Occupational Therapist Assistant (Intern)
University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation, Neuro Stroke Toronto Rehabilitation Therapy Clinic
07.2015 - 09.2016
- Assistant the occupational therapist in seated exercises with patients.
- Instructed and Supervised patients with physical activities including fine motor skills and gross motor skills to regain their range of motion post-stroke.
- Assisted patients when needed to improve dexterity in hands and joints following post-stroke.
- Assisted patients to appointments and weekly walks within the hospital, to prevent falls, and maintain safety of the patients.
- Conducted and documented wellness checks for clients including their pain, satisfaction and overall well-being.
York United Black Students Alliance (YUBSA) Mentor
York University
11.2015 - 04.2016
- Provided mentorship opportunities for racialized students.
- In this program I mentored high school students from: C.W Jefferies and Downsview High School.
- The goal of this program is to encourage at risk youth to attend post-secondary education by assisting them with any barriers that may deter them as post-secondary rates were lower in these high schools.
- Each student received a personal mentee and a wide variety of programs and workshops are provided to assist these students to achieve their goals.
- Conducted workshop presentations on youth mental health, financial literacy, vocational skills, self-esteem, goal setting, and organizational /studying skills.
Supervising Lead Sales Associate
Aldo Shoes
10.2012 - 04.2016
- Provided friendly and effective customer service to all customers
- Consulted with various team members to ensure quality services
- Trained and recruited new employees on the standards of the company
- Won Club Elite, a global sales competition with goals and objectives that must be met weekly, the duration of this competition is a year to win a trip and prizes
- Promoted to be a Club Elite ambassador for current and future employees, to guide and motivate them to be a part of Club Elite
- Promoted to Sales Lead Associate to be a key holder
Education
Master of Arts - Disability And Applied Behaviour Analysis
Brock University
St. Catharines, ON06.2021
Certificate Diploma - Rehabilitation Studies
Seneca College
Toronto, ON06.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
York University
Toronto, ON06.2018
Bachelor of Science - Psychology, Neuroscience And Behaviour
McMaster University
Hamilton, ONHigh School Diploma -
St. Martins Secondary High School
Mississauga06.2013
Skills
- Employee Issue Resolution
- Data Integrity
- Critical Thinking
- Staff Guidance
- Team Meetings
- Employee Evaluation
- Staff Development
- Training Program Implementation
- Team Management
- Supervision
- Managerial Experience
- Clinical Applications
Additional Information
- Honour Roll (2009-2013)
- Club Elite: Excellence in Customer Service
- Graduated with Ontario Scholar Award
- Club Elite: Excellence in Customer Service: Won Best Customer Service in the World
- Rethink: ABA: Applied Behavior Analysis
- Registered Behaviour Technician Training
- Safe Management: Crisis intervention Training
- Workplace Health and Safety Training
- Standard First Aid Level A & AED Training
- CPI: Non-violent Crisis Intervention Training
- Bachelor of Arts with Honours Psychology
- Certification in Rehabilitation Studies
- Safe Management: Crisis intervention Training
- Trauma-informed care training
- Skill-based treatment and PFA training
- Former Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) (2019 - 2021)
Timeline
Clinical Project Manager
Progressive Steps Training & Consultation (A-Team)
05.2023 - Current
Senior Behaviour Therapist
Progressive Step Training & Consultation (A-Team)
10.2022 - 05.2023
Behaviour Technician
Lake Ridge Community Support Services
09.2021 - 03.2022
Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT)
New Haven Learning Center
12.2018 - 01.2020
Instructor Therapist
Alphabee
05.2018 - 11.2018
Client Program Facilitator
Mindforward
01.2018 - 11.2019
Vocational Assistant (intern)
Career Quest Learning Center
09.2016 - 01.2017
Instructor Therapist
Hope Autism Services
01.2016 - 01.2018
Executive Director of Services (YUBSA)
York University
11.2015 - 09.2016
York United Black Students Alliance (YUBSA) Mentor
York University
11.2015 - 04.2016
Occupational Therapist Assistant (Intern)
University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation, Neuro Stroke Toronto Rehabilitation Therapy Clinic
07.2015 - 09.2016
Supervising Lead Sales Associate
Aldo Shoes
10.2012 - 04.2016
Master of Arts - Disability And Applied Behaviour Analysis
Brock University
Certificate Diploma - Rehabilitation Studies
Seneca College
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
York University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology, Neuroscience And Behaviour
McMaster University
High School Diploma -
St. Martins Secondary High School
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