Winnie Banda
North York
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and over three years of experience providing therapeutic and behavioral support to youth and families. Experienced in trauma-informed care, community outreach, and individualized intervention planning. Skilled in working with at-risk, non-verbal, and neurodiverse populations, including those affected by mental health challenges, addictions, and system involvement. Passionate about empowering youth through advocacy, trust-building, and accessible, client-centered support.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Instructor Therapist / Behavioral Support Worker
Bright Start Academy
01.2023 - 01.2025
- Delivered individualized ABA therapy to youth (ages 4-16) with Autism Spectrum Disorder and developmental challenges
- Supported non-verbal youth and those with trauma histories through consistent therapeutic structure and emotional regulation support
- Created behavioral goals in collaboration with caregivers and supervised clinical teams
- Provided advocacy for youth in school settings, addressing behavioral, communication, and academic support needs
- Built strong rapport with families, empowering them with tools to support long-term progress
Administrative Assistant / Mental Health Advocate (VP Student Union)
Trent University - TACSU
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Led mental health initiatives and peer advocacy programs targeting students from diverse backgrounds
- Coordinated events and support groups related to mental health, harm reduction, and anti-violence awareness
- Worked cross-functionally with campus services to deliver resources to marginalized students
Hospital Volunteer - Pediatric & Mental Health Support
Hillcrest Chronic Hospital
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Provided trauma-informed care and emotional support to youth and adults in a mental health unit
- Assisted with therapeutic activities, basic needs, and communication for non-verbal and vulnerable patients
- Facilitated coordination between hospital staff and patient families
Education
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Psychology
Trent University
Skills
- Trauma-Informed Youth Counseling
- Individual & Family Support Planning
- Mental Health & Addictions Support
- Community Outreach & Partnership Building
- Advocacy in Education, Employment & Justice
- Case Management & Crisis Intervention
- Cultural Sensitivity & Inclusive Practice
- Group Facilitation & Psychoeducation
- Knowledge of Toronto Youth & Mental Health Services
- Verbal & Non-Verbal Communication Strategies
- Documentation & Confidential Recordkeeping
- Microsoft Office
- Google Workspace
- Case Notes Systems
Community Advocacy Focus
- Committed to equity, cultural humility, and trauma-informed practice
- Experienced working with clients from diverse racial, socioeconomic, and LGBTQ+ communities
- Strong understanding of Toronto's youth support services, mental health systems, and school-community partnerships
References
Lead instructor and trainer at Bright Start Academy
Latifah Roach
437-246-1740
Co-worker at Bright Start Academy
Jummy Shodunke
647-807-9841
Co-worker at Bright Start Academy
Shalom Madamombe
647-891-8022
Timeline
Lead Instructor Therapist / Behavioral Support Worker
Bright Start Academy
01.2023 - 01.2025
Administrative Assistant / Mental Health Advocate (VP Student Union)
Trent University - TACSU
01.2020 - 01.2022
Hospital Volunteer - Pediatric & Mental Health Support
Hillcrest Chronic Hospital
01.2015 - 01.2017
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Psychology
Trent University