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Course Offerings

  • Individual Rights and Advocacy
  • Incident Reporting Protocols
  • CPI Non-Violent Crisis Intervention
  • Behavioral Support Strategies
  • Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
  • Direct Support Professional (DSP) Classroom Training
  • ConnectSphere Learning Management System
  • Maine College of Direct Support Online Modules
  • CPR and First Aid Certification
  • Certified Residential Medication Aide (CRMA)
  • Leadership for Team and House Managers
  • Job Shadowing Program
  • Clinical Skill Development

Our Commitment to Training

At Community Social Services, our employees are the cornerstone of delivering our mission, vision, and values. We are dedicated to equipping our workforce with comprehensive education, training, and support to foster a professional and engaged team.

Training Philosophy

The Training Department at Community Social Services is committed to delivering high-quality education to all staff levels, ensuring they are well-prepared to support clients in achieving their fullest potential and leading healthy, fulfilling lives. Our training programs incorporate evidence-based practices, trauma-informed care, and advanced clinical skills, surpassing state and federal regulatory standards. This commitment positions Community Social Services as a leader in the field.
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Courses Offered

Individual Rights, Choice, and Maltreatment Training

This interactive classroom course explores the legal rights of clients under state and federal law, with an emphasis on empowerment, choice, and protection from maltreatment. Participants learn how to advocate for clients’ fundamental rights, support informed decision-making, and fulfill their role as mandated reporters.

Incident Reporting Protocols

This training, available one-on-one or in group settings, focuses on the formal process for documenting and reporting critical incidents. It highlights the legal responsibilities of mandated reporters and ensures staff are prepared to address suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation in a timely and accurate manner.

CPI Non-Violent Crisis Intervention

A classroom-based course that introduces staff to strategies for preventing and managing disruptive behavior. The training emphasizes early intervention techniques and non-physical methods to de-escalate situations safely, and it also incorporates CPI’s Personal Safety Techniques for added preparedness.

Behavioral Support Strategies

This training is tailored to the individual needs of clients. Before beginning a shift, employees meet with their supervisor to review the client’s Person-Centered Plan (PCP), discuss behavioral strategies, and learn techniques designed to support the client in overcoming challenges and working toward their goals.

Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

This classroom-based course equips staff with the knowledge and skills to work effectively in diverse community and workplace settings. The training focuses on building cultural competence and encourages a client-centered approach when interacting with clients, families, and community members.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Classroom Training

This mandatory 2.5-day training is required for DSP certification. Through interactive sessions, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of clients’ biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. Topics covered include developmental disabilities, mental health, community inclusion, communication, professionalism, documentation, sexuality, and positive behavior supports.

Maine College of Direct Support Online Modules

As a required component of DSP certification, these online modules provide staff with accessible training in key areas of direct support work. The curriculum can be completed online, allowing flexibility while ensuring staff receive specialized, standardized training.

CPR and First Aid Certification

This classroom training prepares staff to respond to emergencies. Participants learn how to recognize hazardous conditions, provide immediate assistance to injured or ill individuals, and sustain care until professional medical responders arrive on site.

Certified Residential Medication Aide (CRMA)

This training equips staff with the knowledge and skills necessary for the CRMA role. Participants study infection control practices, vital sign monitoring, basic pharmacology, and safe medication administration to ensure clients receive high-quality medical support.

Leadership for Team and House Managers

This classroom course is designed for staff moving into leadership roles. It defines the responsibilities and expectations of Team Leaders and House Managers, while also integrating state and federal regulations with Community Social Services policies.

Job Shadowing Program

All new hires complete mandatory on-site job shadowing with a certified House Manager or Team Leader. This program introduces staff to program documentation, client interaction, and day-to-day responsibilities. It also encourages the development of professional relationships between new staff and their supervisors.

Clinical Skill Development

Designed for management and director-level staff, this advanced training focuses on expanding clinical expertise in both behavioral and medical health. The sessions are led by in-house clinicians, psychologists, and nurses, ensuring that participants gain in-depth knowledge from experienced professionals.

ConnectSphere Learning Management System

Community Social Services uses the ConnectSphere platform to manage online training, schedule mandatory courses, and facilitate staff communication. The system ensures compliance with federal training requirements and also provides elective courses, such as specialized strategies for supporting clients with autism.

  • 312 Cottage Street Suite B, Sanford Maine, 04073
  • 207 459-9844
  • info@cssmaine.org

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