Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Position Summary

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) at The Adolphus Group are trusted team members who provide hands-on, person-centered support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in licensed residential homes. Working within the scope of Pennsylvania’s 6400 and 6100 regulatory frameworks, DSPs are responsible for promoting health, safety, dignity, independence, and inclusion.

This is a professional, frontline role that demands consistency, accountability, emotional regulation, and adherence to clinical and compliance standards. DSPs help individuals achieve their personal goals, follow structured routines, and participate in meaningful daily living — all while preserving each person’s rights and autonomy.

DSPs are expected to deliver trauma-informed, equity-driven care while maintaining clear documentation, participating in incident response/reporting, and ensuring full compliance with DHS expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Daily Support & Personal Care
  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility
  • Provide meal planning, preparation, and nutritional support based on ISP goals and dietary needs
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and respectful living environment
• Service Implementation & Documentation
  • Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs), Behavior Support Plans (BSPs), and Risk Mitigation Plans
  • Accurately complete shift notes, data collection, progress tracking, and incident reports
  • Support documentation and monitoring related to community engagement and individual outcomes
• Health, Safety & Medication Administration
  • Administer medications per PA Medication Administration Program (MAP) guidelines
  • Monitor and report changes in health, behavior, or psychiatric condition
  • Conduct emergency drills, safety checks, and follow incident management procedures
• Crisis Prevention & Trauma-Informed Response
  • Use de-escalation and redirection techniques consistent with trauma-informed practices
  • Respond to behavioral or emotional crises with professionalism and care
  • Preserve individual dignity, rights, and choice at all times
• Professionalism & Team Collaboration
  • Attend all required trainings, staff meetings, and supervision sessions
  • Maintain confidentiality, healthy boundaries, and ethical care standards
  • Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, medical professionals, and families

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Valid driver’s license preferred
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and assisting with mobility
• Successful completion of all required DHS background checks
• Completion of mandatory onboarding trainings (e.g., fire safety, rights, trauma-informed care, med administration if applicable)

Work Environment

This role involves direct, physical, and emotionally engaged care work. Shifts may include mornings, evenings, overnights, weekends, or holidays. The environment may include individuals with complex medical or behavioral needs. Staff must be prepared to respond to emergencies, follow plans with fidelity, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.