Direct Support Professional (DSP) – 1:1 Community and Behavioral Support
Shift Hours:
Monday - Friday
3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Position Summary
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides individualized one-to-one support to an adult with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities during evenings and weekends. The DSP is responsible for promoting independence, ensuring health and safety, and supporting the individual in maintaining calm behavior through proactive intervention, positive behavior supports, and effective coping strategies.
The DSP serves as a trusted support person, helping the individual successfully participate in home, community, recreational, and social activities while fostering dignity, choice, and personal growth.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide direct one-to-one supervision and support during evenings and weekends.
- Implement individualized behavior support plans and therapeutic strategies as directed by the interdisciplinary team.
- Utilize proactive techniques to promote emotional regulation and prevent behavioral escalation.
- Assist the individual in identifying and utilizing appropriate coping skills when experiencing stress, anxiety, frustration, or emotional dysregulation.
- Maintain a calm, structured, and supportive environment that promotes stability and success.
- Support participation in community outings, recreational activities, social events, and personal interests.
- Assist with activities of daily living as needed, including meal preparation, personal care reminders, organization, and household tasks.
- Encourage independence, self-advocacy, decision-making, and skill development.
- Monitor for signs of emotional distress or behavioral concerns and intervene using approved de-escalation techniques.
- Maintain accurate documentation of services provided, behavioral observations, incidents, and progress toward goals.
- Communicate regularly with family members, supervisors, and other team members regarding the individual's needs and progress.
- Ensure the individual's health, safety, and well-being at all times.
- Provide transportation to community activities, appointments, and recreational opportunities as required.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Must be DSP certified with clear record through the HCWR
- Ability to remain calm and composed during challenging situations.
- Knowledge of positive behavior supports, crisis prevention, and de-escalation techniques.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Patience, empathy, and a commitment to person-centered services.
- Ability to build trusting relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, intellectual disabilities, or behavioral health needs preferred.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
- Ability to pass background checks and complete required training.
Key Outcomes
The DSP will help the individual:
- Maintain emotional regulation and reduce behavioral incidents.
- Successfully utilize coping strategies during periods of stress or anxiety.
- Increase community participation and social engagement.
- Develop greater independence and self-confidence.
- Experience a safe, positive, and meaningful quality of life.
Pay: From $22.50 per hour
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
