1:1 Direct Support Professional in Myerstown, PA

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – In Home & Community Support

Myerstown, PA

$19.50/HR | Flexible Weekly Schedule

Abound Health is seeking a skilled, patient, and behavior-savvy Direct Support Professional (DSP) to support a young woman in the Myerstown area diagnosed with Mild Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She lives primarily with her mother and spends every other week with her father. Her weekly schedule alternates based on which home she is staying in.

This role is ideal for a DSP who is confident, calm under pressure, and experienced in supporting individuals with behavioral needs. A minimum of 1 year of caregiving experience is required. Family is extremely important to her, and she is working toward greater independence. She thrives with structure, predictability, and a DSP who can support her without labeling her needs as “behavioral support,” as this term makes her uncomfortable.

About the Individual

She is a bright, family-oriented young woman who wants to build independence and confidence. She can experience anxiety, which may lead to behaviors such as raising her voice, swearing, or—more recently—physical aggression like swinging when triggered. These behaviors are not frequent, but they can occur when she becomes overwhelmed.

Common triggers include changes in schedule or lack of timeliness, rain or dark clouds, and anxiety-producing situations or unexpected changes. There is no formal behavior plan in place, as she does not feel comfortable participating in one. Because of this, the DSP must be skilled in de-escalation, emotional regulation strategies, and supporting individuals without relying on a written plan. Personal care needs are low, but behavioral support needs are high.

Schedule

The schedule alternates every other week.

Week 1 (at Dad’s):

• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday — 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Week 2 (at Mom’s):

• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday or Friday — 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Some flexibility is helpful, as the family’s routine shifts slightly depending on which home she is staying in.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide calm, supportive 1:1 care in home and community settings
• Support independence, daily routines, and community engagement
• Use strong behavioral awareness and de-escalation skills
• Maintain consistency, structure, and emotional support
• Assist with skill building and confidence-building activities
• Document services accurately and on time
• Communicate professionally with family and care team
• Maintain safety during moments of anxiety or escalation

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 1 year of caregiving or DSP experience required
• Strong behavioral support skills
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and grounded during escalations
• Comfortable supporting someone with occasional verbal or physical behaviors
• Reliable, punctual, and able to follow a structured routine
• Valid driver’s license and active auto insurance
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to pass background checks
• Willingness to complete medication and behavioral training

Compensation

$19.50 per hour
(In Home & Community Support Services)

Experience

1 year caregiving/DSP experience required
Experience with Autism and behavioral support strongly preferred

Benefits

Weekly pay
Flexible scheduling
Paid onboarding
Competitive wages
Medical, dental, life insurance, and 401(k) available based on hours worked

If you are an experienced DSP who is confident supporting individuals with behavioral needs—and you’re passionate about helping someone grow their independence—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact us at:
[email protected]

Equal Employment Opportunity

Abound Health is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, disability/handicap status, or any other legally protected characteristic.