The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides hands-on support, care, and assistance to individuals with developmental disabilities or other needs in residential, community, or home settings. DSPs play a critical role in promoting independence, well-being, and inclusion by assisting individuals with daily living activities, personal care, and participation in community activities. The DSP ensures that individuals receive person-centered support that aligns with their Individualized Service Plans (ISPs) and helps them achieve their personal goals.
This role requires compassion, patience, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the individuals served.
Key Responsibilities:
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Direct Care and Support:
- Assist individuals with daily living activities, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal preparation.
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Support individuals in completing tasks that promote independence, such as household chores, budgeting, shopping, and managing medications.
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Help individuals participate in community activities, social events, employment, or volunteer opportunities.
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Encourage and facilitate the development of social, vocational, and life skills according to each individual’s ISP.
- Person-Centered Planning and Implementation:
- Follow individualized plans to support each person’s goals, preferences, and needs, ensuring a person-centered approach to care.
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Collaborate with individuals, families, and the care team to review and update ISPs regularly based on progress and changes in needs.
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Promote choice and decision-making by providing opportunities for individuals to express their preferences and take an active role in their lives.
- Health and Safety:
- Monitor individuals' physical and emotional well-being, identifying any changes in behavior, health, or safety concerns, and reporting them promptly.
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Administer medications or support individuals in taking medications as prescribed, following proper protocols and documentation procedures.
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Follow all safety procedures to ensure a secure and clean living environment, including adherence to emergency protocols.
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Assist with mobility, transfers, and use of adaptive equipment as needed to ensure individuals’ safety and comfort.
- Behavioral Support:
- Support individuals in managing challenging behaviors by implementing individualized behavior support plans.
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Use positive reinforcement, de-escalation techniques, and crisis prevention strategies to encourage positive behaviors and manage crises when necessary.
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Provide emotional support and guidance, helping individuals develop coping skills and build positive relationships.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of individuals' progress, daily activities, health status, and any incidents that occur.
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Complete required reports, including progress notes, incident reports, and medication administration records, in accordance with organizational policies.
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Participate in team meetings and care plan reviews, providing input on individuals' progress and any updates to care plans.
- Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with individuals’ families, guardians, healthcare providers, and other team members to ensure consistent, high-quality care.
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Communicate openly with supervisors and colleagues about individuals’ needs, progress, and any concerns.
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Attend and participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to improve skills and knowledge.
- Community Engagement and Advocacy:
- Encourage individuals to participate in community activities, promoting social inclusion and building connections with peers and community members.
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Advocate for individuals' rights and ensure they have access to opportunities for education, employment, and socialization.
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Provide transportation and accompany individuals to appointments, social events, or recreational activities as needed.
- Crisis Management and Problem-Solving:
- Respond effectively to crisis situations, providing appropriate interventions to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals.
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Implement crisis intervention plans as needed, using approved strategies for de-escalation and conflict resolution.
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Stay calm under pressure and seek additional support or resources as required during emergencies.
Qualifications:
Education:
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High school diploma or equivalent (required).
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Additional coursework or certification in developmental disabilities, caregiving, or healthcare (preferred).
Experience:
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1-2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or in a similar caregiving role (preferred).
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Experience in residential, home-based, or community-based care settings is a plus.
Skills and Knowledge:
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Strong understanding of person-centered planning and support for individuals with developmental disabilities.
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Ability to provide direct care, including assistance with daily living activities and personal care.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with individuals, families, and team members.
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Ability to manage challenging behaviors and respond to crises with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
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Basic knowledge of medication administration and health/safety protocols.
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Organizational skills for maintaining records, completing documentation, and following care plans.
Required Certifications (Must Have):
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CPR/First Aid Certification
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Prevention and Support
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Article 9
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Medication Administration Certification (preferred or willingness to obtain)
Physical Requirements:
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Ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting, transferring, or assisting individuals with mobility.
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Must be able to engage in physical activities with individuals, including recreational activities, outings, and household tasks.
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Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, or overnight shifts, based on the needs of the individuals served.
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Proficient in navigating high-stress situations by employing de-escalation techniques to achieve productive outcomes.
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Demonstrated mental and emotional acuity in managing individuals in dysregulated situations.
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Finger and manual dexterity.
Additional Requirements (Must Have):
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Background check clearance as required by state and federal regulations.
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Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
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Valid fingerprint card/willingness to obtain
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Social Security card
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Commitment to ongoing training and professional development.
Salary Range:
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TBD (depending on experience, location, and organizational budget).
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Benefits may include health insurance (Medical, Vision, Dental), paid sick time off, and opportunities for professional development.
Working Conditions:
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The DSP works in a variety of settings, including individuals’ homes, community locations, or residential facilities.
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The role may involve working non-standard hours, including evenings, weekends, or on-call shifts, to meet individuals’ needs.
