Manager, Home and Community Care Support Services, Ontario Ministry of Health
Social Work

Why did you decide to become a social worker?

I have always wanted to give back and help others. Prior to applying to University, I researched what career would lead to this goal, and social work it was! I learned that the profession of social work would provide a foundation of knowledge, and an ability to work with diverse populations lending to a mammoth of career pathways.

I am passionate about the profession of social work and have seen the positive impact Social Workers have in supporting individuals.

Can you tell me about your social work journey and how it has led you to your current position?

I graduated with my Bachelor of Social Work in 2008 and Master of Social Work in 2009. Following my graduation, I volunteered with youth involved with the criminal justice system providing individual and group counseling while working in administrative roles in health care. I began my career working as a Social Worker in Long-Term Care (LTC). After a few years of working in LTC, I worked as a Care Coordinator with Home and Community Care Support Services where I completed assessments to determine patients' eligibility for home and community care support and completed applications for rehab, LTC, and palliative care.

Where do you work, what’s your job title, and can you provide a little information about what a typical work week is like for you?

I currently work with Home and Community Care Support Services as a Manager. A typical work week involves managing the daily team and organizational operations; developing, delivering, and evaluating community programs. I support staff with developing and implementing quality patient-centred care plans for patients being discharged from the hospital.

Can you tell me about your current position, what you love, and what are some of the challenges?

I love helping patients and caregivers navigate our complex health system. I enjoy working in multidisciplinary teams where I can learn from colleagues and also share social work approaches that help to improve health outcomes and service delivery for our communities.

A big challenge is not having enough time in the day to enact all the changes I want. To help myself remain motivated, I engage in self-reflexive practice, do my best to help the individuals I am serving, and maintain strong support networks, including my collegial relationships.

What did you take away from our social work program?

Utilize anti-oppressive, systems theory and critical thinking approaches to support and assist individuals to be their best. Always consider the impact of what you do and how it will improve outcomes and eliminate systemic barriers for the communities you are serving. Be a voice for those who are not in the room.

Why did you decide to become a mentor for students in the School of Social Work?

I want to help others on their journey to fulfilling their purpose, help build their social work network and answer questions they may have.

What advice would you give to new social work graduates?

Remain engaged in continuous learning and pace yourself. Network with individuals who are working in the area(s) where you would like to work. Seek guidance on what you can do to get to where you want to be. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions.

What do you remember most about your first job?

I was nervous and thought, “I don't know what I'm doing.” With time, your confidence and competence will increase. Rely on your colleagues for support and guidance… and ask lots of questions.