Direct Support Professional

Support individuals with disabilities or special needs and provide care to make sure these individuals can live their best lives.

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Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Direct Support Professional

Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.

SKILL

Active Listening

SKILL

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

SKILL

Adaptability

SKILL

Advocacy

SKILL

Assessment

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About This Career Path

Support individuals with disabilities or special needs and provide care to make sure these individuals can live their best lives.

Environment

Direct Support Professionals specialize in assisting individuals with disabilities in various settings. They work in Day Programs, Group Homes, and private home settings. On the Employment side, DSPs serve as job coaches, providing training at home and in the community to help individuals excel in their daily lives and workplaces.

Also Known As

  • Attendant care provider
  • Caregiver
  • Companion caregiver
  • Direct support professional
  • Home care worker
  • Life skills coach
  • Mentor
  • Personal care assistant
  • Rehabilitation specialist
  • Respite care provider
  • Supported living assistant
  • Care technician
  • Community support specialist
  • Direct care worker
  • Home attendant
  • In-home care provider
  • Live-in caregiver
  • Personal care aide
  • Professional caregiver
  • Residential aide
  • Support worker
  • Vocational support specialist
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