Theodora Masalesa

Trauma-informed and dedicated Crisis Intervention Specialist with over 3 years and 8 months of experience supporting survivors of gender-based violence, domestic abuse, sexual assault, and vulnerable individuals in crisis situations. Experienced in frontline crisis intervention, survivor advocacy, case coordination, emotional support, and multidisciplinary collaboration with social workers, SAPS, FCS units, shelters, healthcare providers, and legal services across multiple provinces in South Africa. Currently serving in a supervisory crisis intervention role, providing operational guidance, mentorship, and emotional support to frontline teams during high-volume and emergency GBV cases.

Skilled in conducting staff debriefing sessions, strengthening trauma-informed support systems, improving operational response strategies, and coordinating emergency interventions. Experienced in capturing and managing confidential client information, opening and launching crisis intervention cases, maintaining accurate case documentation, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring ethical and confidential service delivery. Passionate about advocacy, trauma-informed care, safeguarding vulnerable individuals, and empowering survivors through compassionate and professional support.

Senior Crisis Intervention Supervisor - TEARS Foundation - Sandton, South Africa

(2025-05)

• Provided real-time crisis support by monitoring and responding to messages on TEARS Foundation social media platforms.
• Assessed the urgency and nature of each inquiry and triaged clients appropriately.
• Referred survivors to support services including legal aid, counselling, shelters, medical assistance, and emergency responders.
• Maintained trauma-informed communication while ensuring client dignity, confidentiality, and emotional safety.
• Captured confidential client information and launched intervention cases using organisational systems.
• Maintained detailed case notes, referrals, follow-ups, and case outcomes.
• Collaborated with internal intervention teams and external service providers to coordinate emergency support.
• Conducted follow-ups with survivors to ensure continuity of care and access to services.
• Supported public awareness campaigns by engaging with communities and sharing educational resources.
• Identified and escalated high-risk or emergency situations including suicidal ideation and immediate threats to safety.
• Ensured compliance with organisational confidentiality protocols and data protection procedures.

Intervention Specialist - TEARS Foundation - Sandton, South Africa

(2022-08 - 2024-04)

• Conducted client assessments to determine appropriate intervention strategies based on individual needs and risk factors.
• Delivered direct support services including crisis counselling, referrals, emotional support, and safety planning.
• Captured confidential client information and maintained accurate case documentation.
• Opened and coordinated crisis intervention cases from intake to follow-up.
• Assisted survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, abuse, and trauma.
• Worked collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to provide holistic support services.
• Ensured timely referrals to healthcare providers, shelters, SAPS, social workers, and legal support services.
• Maintained professional, ethical, and survivor-centered service delivery.

Care Worker - Kernel Old Age Home - Sandton, South Africa

(2016-06 - 2016-09)

• Assisted elderly residents with personal hygiene, dressing, mobility, and daily living activities.
• Administered medication and monitored residents' health changes.
• Provided wound care and followed infection control procedures.
• Ensured residents' comfort, safety, dignity, and emotional wellbeing.
• Maintained clean living spaces and accurate care records.

Bachelor of Arts - Health and Social Services (Community & Health Psychology) - University of South Africa (UNISA) (2024)

Certificate - Personal Growth & Counselling - Lifeline South Africa (2024)

Studies - Archival & Records Management - University of South Africa (UNISA) (2019)

Certification - Health Care Worker - Thuto Bophelo Nursing Academy (2015)