Scenario #1: Community Support Worker Roles
A community support worker helps people who face tough challenges like mental health issues, housing problems, or limited access to services. Maya is a CSW who works with Alex, a 24-year-old dealing with anxiety and depression. Maya helps him set simple goals such as going to therapy, taking his medication regularly, and finding part-time work. She connects him to local services like food programs, mental health groups, and job training. Maya also assists Alex in dealing with systems like public housing and health care.
While she offers emotional support and stability, she keeps professional boundaries, does not give medical advice, and encourages Alex to make his own choices. To succeed, a CSW needs skills such as empathy, good communication, organization, and awareness of different cultures. Maya takes a client-focused approach by involving Alex in decisions and focusing on his strengths. She works with other professionals, keeps good records, and changes her support plan as Alex improves. Regular meetings help build trust and keep support steady. By helping Alex become more independent, Maya promotes lasting progress. She also makes sure to care for herself and get supervision, which helps prevent burnout and keeps her providing quality care.
Reflective questions
- How does Maya’s client-centred approach empower Alex to take control of his own progress and decision-making?
- What strategies did Maya use to maintain professional boundaries while still building a trusting and supportive relationship with Alex?
- In what ways did Maya demonstrate effective collaboration with other professionals and services, and why is this important in community support work?
- How might Maya’s awareness of her own limits and need for supervision contribute to her long-term effectiveness and well-being as a support worker?
