Sharing some of the experiences and how we create great rapport

[Supportingtogether]

It’s a wonderful and mysterious journey as a DSW, and even more so, i imagine, as a participant, but i can honestly say that I’ve learned so much along the way from each client I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside.

We learn to be flexible because no 2 people are the same, we learn to be patient because it’s not about us at the end of the day and we also learn to be caring and how to have the simplest of fun.

Some days I’ve arrived at work and had a client just want to sit in quiet company because that’s all they can manage that day, so that’s what we do, and other days I could be running around like a chook without a head, or scaling a fence, which I’ve done a couple of times haha. While every day wasn’t always what i had expected, it taught me more about the role and to think outside the box. Some days you need to do a quick sidestep and get out the door fast, but we always take from that and have insight into the next shift.

My next step now is to be a Provider and offer Support Services and Peer Support for Mental Health/Substance abuse. I believe I have a lot to offer from my experience over the last 16 years as a DSW and the things I’ve learned. We all want to be heard and included because if we’re being honest, when we aren’t heard, it makes us feel worthless, so for us to be able to listen to our participants and actually actively listen to what they’re saying and needing, that is only part of what i want to offer as a Provider. It’s only me at the moment and down the track I plan on bringing onboard staff that are like minded, caring and empathetic, flexible and chill, ready to give their all while they’re working alongside the participant.

I do have lived experience in Mental health and substance abuse as my youngest son and brother have both had their struggles over the years. My son has grown so much with the help of Psychiatrists and Therapy, then self-learning, and has come out the other side amazingly strong. He still struggles with Mental health of course but is an awesome human being. I’ve also worked with Prader Willi, peg fed, ABI, TBI, Battens disease, Neuropathy, Downs, Dual diagnosis in Mental Health, ASD, Schizophrenia and BPD to name a few so the learning has been widespread. From these clients I have never been so humbled in life, made some great connections and created some amazing rapport. I believe we are never too old to learn, especially in this Industry, and that is why I have ventured into being a Provider. I still want to work alongside participants, but i also want to offer different services for them, from myself and staff, so this seemed to be the natural next step.

We really do have a family feel, inclusive and heard company here. You get to be you, and we get to walk alongside you watching you grow, laugh and learn along the way.

[Lauren]

It can be a bit tricky at the start and sometimes starts slowly, but once you get some momentum going it is a fantastic and often life changing experience. Especially as you get to set your own terms as the provider in regards to how you want every client to be treated and what your business goals are.

[Supportingtogether]

I totally agree. It is a slow start but I’m really positive about it being what it’s meant to once I start onboarding. I’m really looking forward to the next step and doing things the way I’ve learned from so many over the years. Here’s to success and happiness for everyone!!

[JakeWest]

@Supportingtogether

It’s a wonderful and mysterious journey as a DSW, and even more so, i imagine, as a participant, but i can honestly say that I’ve learned so much along the way from each client I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside.

We learn to be flexible because no 2 people are the same, we learn to be patient because it’s not about us at the end of the day and we also learn to be caring and how to have the simplest of fun.

Some days I’ve arrived at work and had a client just want to sit in quiet company because that’s all they can manage that day, so that’s what we do, and other days I could be running around like a chook without a head, or scaling a fence, which I’ve done a couple of times haha. While every day wasn’t always what i had expected, it taught me more about the role and to think outside the box. Some days you need to do a quick sidestep and get out the door fast, but we always take from that and have insight into the next shift.

My next step now is to be a Provider and offer Support Services and Peer Support for Mental Health/Substance abuse. I believe I have a lot to offer from my experience over the last 16 years as a DSW and the things I’ve learned. We all want to be heard and included because if we’re being honest, when we aren’t heard, it makes us feel worthless, so for us to be able to listen to our participants and actually actively listen to what they’re saying and needing, that is only part of what i want to offer as a Provider. It’s only me at the moment and down the track I plan on bringing onboard staff that are like minded, caring and empathetic, flexible and chill, ready to give their all while they’re working alongside the participant.

I do have lived experience in Mental health and substance abuse as my youngest son and brother have both had their struggles over the years. My son has grown so much with the help of Psychiatrists and Therapy, then self-learning, and has come out the other side amazingly strong. He still struggles with Mental health of course but is an awesome human being. I’ve also worked with Prader Willi, peg fed, ABI, TBI, Battens disease, Neuropathy, Downs, Dual diagnosis in Mental Health, ASD, Schizophrenia and BPD to name a few so the learning has been widespread. From these clients I have never been so humbled in life, made some great connections and created some amazing rapport. I believe we are never too old to learn, especially in this Industry, and that is why I have ventured into being a Provider. I still want to work alongside participants, but i also want to offer different services for them, from myself and staff, so this seemed to be the natural next step.

We really do have a family feel, inclusive and heard company here. You get to be you, and we get to walk alongside you watching you grow, laugh and learn along the way.

The way you describe your experiences really resonates, especially those moments where you just go with the flow, whether it’s sitting quietly with someone or jumping into unexpected situations.

Starting your own company sounds like a natural next step, especially with all the hands-on experience you’ve had (so many start with no experience in this industry).

How are you finding the transition so far? Any surprises or challenges that have come up? I imagine shifting from being a DSW to running the whole show comes with its own learning curve.

[EmmaHunt7]

It’s not always easy finding the right balance, especially when working with people who have such varied needs. DSW have a tough gig. I admire the people who have genuine patience and love in their heart. They are truely diamonds in the rough.

As someone who’s been supporting my mom through her Alzheimer’s, I can see how important it is to have someone who genuinely listens and is flexible enough to meet her where she’s at each day. It sounds like you’re bringing that same level of care and understanding to the new role you’re stepping into as a Provider.

It’s great to see someone with your experience and mindset taking this step!

Hopefully the business side of things doesn’t crush that DSW mentality you currently possess at this new stage of your journey.

[Supportingtogether]

It really does come with its own learning, and I’m ready for it lol. It’s a bit daunting and can be overwhelming but I have great support and know how I want it all to flow so I’m really excited about it.

[Supportingtogether]

Hi Emma

I get what you’re saying with your mum and it’s so hard when they transition to all the different stages of dementia. We tend to wear so many different hats when we see them. My mum also has dementia so i understand what you’re saying.
I plan on staying focused in my DSW mindset, but also a Provider one too, because I know how important it is to be on the same page as your staff and participants. I’ve seen many lose their way over the years and it’s something I’m going to be very aware of through this next stage and journey.