Wellbeing strategies top-of-mind for direct support workers

Xavier Noordermeer, Peter Marks, and a few of the 100+ direct support workers who took part in an interactive one-day conference created by the Quinte Region East Professional Development Association.

Whether it’s dealing with unanticipated conflict or practicing mindfulness, more than 100 local direct support workers (DSWs) gained valuable wellbeing insights at the Quinte Region East Professional Developmental Association’s recent DSW conference.

There were 12 developmental service organizations meeting for a day of professional learning, collaboration and celebration.

Peter Marks and Xavier Noordermeer, from the Centre for Conscious Care, kicked the day off with a session about developing mindful emotional self-awareness and, regulation for personal and professional well-being. Guiding participants with experiential learning, the session focused on emotional regulation, self-awareness, and mindful engagement in professional practice.

Marks and Noordermeer answered questions such as “Why do we become entangled in power struggles and find it difficult to de-escalate?” and “Why does our intention to be kind sometimes conflict with our emotional responses?”

A thought-provoking session about the power of language featured insights from New Vision Advocates members Yvonne Spicer and Mark Anderson, along with Dawn Lee, representative of the Quality Supports that Respect the Person Provincial Working Group.

Drawing from lived experience, participants learned how language shapes perception, influences inclusion, and can reinforce or even challenge stigma.

“Through authentic storytelling and dialogue, people uncovered how intentional communication fosters environments where individuals with developmental disabilities are seen, heard, and valued as equal members of their communities,” said Roxanne Bird, human resources director, Community Living Prince Edward.

Keynote speaker Meg Soper wrapped up the day by celebrating direct support workers’ contributions with a unique blend of humor, storytelling, and motivational insights.

“Meg highlighted how super important it is to always maintain perspective, resilience, and connection during the times of change such as we’re all experiencing right now,” said Darlene Dale, executive director Community Living Belleville and Area.

Attendees left with practical wellbeing strategies for both their personal and professional lives as direct support workers in the developmental service sector.

The Quinte Region East Professional Development Association includes Community Living Belleville and Area, Community Living Prince Edward, Community Living Quinte West, Community Services of Belleville and District, Community Visions and Networking Quinte, Inclusion Northumberland and Pathways to Independence.