As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will provide essential care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or other special needs in residential, community, or day program settings. Your role will focus on empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives by promoting independence, fostering community integration, and providing personalized assistance tailored to their unique abilities and preferences.
Key Responsibilities:
- Individualized Support Services:
- Provide direct care and support to individuals with disabilities in accordance with their individualized service plans, respecting their rights, preferences, and choices.
- Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as personal hygiene, grooming, dressing, toileting, bathing, and eating, as needed.
- Behavioral Support and Skill Building:
- Implement behavioral support strategies and positive reinforcement techniques to encourage the development of social skills, communication skills, and self-regulation abilities.
- Facilitate skill-building activities and therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing individuals’ independence, self-care capabilities, and community participation.
- Community Integration and Inclusion:
- Support individuals in accessing community resources, participating in recreational activities, and engaging in social interactions with peers, neighbors, and community members.
- Accompany individuals on outings, appointments, and community events, providing transportation and assistance as needed to promote community integration and independence.
- Health and Safety Monitoring:
- Monitor individuals’ health status, medication administration, and medical appointments, ensuring adherence to prescribed treatment regimens and timely reporting of any concerns or changes in health condition.
- Maintain a safe and clean living environment for individuals, addressing health and safety hazards promptly and following infection control protocols.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Document daily activities, observations, and progress notes accurately and comprehensively in individual records or electronic systems, maintaining confidentiality and compliance with privacy regulations.
- Report incidents, accidents, and significant changes in individuals’ condition or behavior to appropriate supervisors or designated contacts, following established reporting procedures.
- Advocacy and Empowerment:
- Advocate for individuals’ rights, choices, and preferences, and empower them to make informed decisions about their lives, goals, and aspirations.
- Collaborate with families, guardians, case managers, and other stakeholders to ensure individuals’ needs are met and their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or training in human services, social work, psychology, or related fields preferred.
- Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities or special needs preferred.
- Knowledge of person-centered planning principles, behavioral support techniques, and developmental disabilities services.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport, establish boundaries, and maintain professional relationships with individuals and their support networks.
- Compassionate, patient, and respectful attitude towards individuals with disabilities, with a commitment to promoting their autonomy, dignity, and quality of life.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team, with flexibility to adapt to changing needs and priorities.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record may be required for certain positions involving transportation of individuals.
Note: This job description outlines the general responsibilities and qualifications for the role of a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Specific duties and requirements may vary depending on the organization, program, and individuals served.
At Allegheny Alliance, we are available to answer your questions and address your concerns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.