About the role
PURPOSE OF DIRECT SERVICE PROFESSIONAL (DSP) INTERNSHIP
This program is designed to highlight the career opportunities available to you in becoming a DSP, while providing you with the skills that you need to deliver high-quality services and supports that allow people to live their best lives and feel empowered.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND FRAMEWORK FOR CARRYING OUT RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Independent/Supportive Living Specialist Intern, you will learn about the role of, and perform entry-level duties under, a qualified DSP for up to three months and up to thirty hours per week. The duties of a Independent/Supportive Living Specialist Intern are tailored around each individual served and may include support with: participant empowerment, support and assist with maintaining independent living goals, coordinate services to promote self-sufficiency and quality of life, provide guidance and coaching to participants in areas such as budgeting, meal planning, household management, and personal hygiene, community and service(s) networking, facilitation of services, providing community living skills and supports, education, training and self-development, advocacy, vocational, educational and career support, organizational participation, documentation, building and maintaining healthy friendships and other relationships, keeping the participant at the center (person-centered), and supporting their health and wellness, which may include assisting with daily tasks.
The role of a DSP is complex and requires a specific set of skills and values. The following represents what to expect in the DSP practice:
- DSPs recognize the unique gifts, preferences and needs of each person supported.
- DSPs recognize the personhood of people they support. They partner with them in making informed decisions and everyday choices about their finances, well-being, relationships, and employment.
- DSPs will use knowledge, skills (competencies), and values such as the NADSP Code of Ethics to guide their work and provide quality services.
- DSPs continue to learn and develop their professional abilities through ongoing in-service and self-directed education and training.
- DSPs understand that quality services occur at the point of interaction with the people that they support.
- DSPs realize that their role includes being a mentor and a facilitator.
- DSPs inform the people they support regarding their responsibilities and advocate with them for their valued role in society.
- DSPs create environments where the people they support feel empowered to have meaningful relationships with friends, their families, and promote integration and inclusion in all our nation’s communities.
- DSPs respect the privacy of the people they support and commit to promote their physical and emotional well-being.
- Weekly pay
- Employment retention payments at six and twelve months
- FREE Interactive training
- A variety of schedules available
- Play an integral role in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their community
- May lead to a long-term career path
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must have a High School Diploma (or equivalent) or a Certificate of Completion
- Must have a valid Identification Card or Driver’s License
- Must pass a background check and other required health screenings