Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professionals Career Development Program (DSP)

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide essential support and services to individuals with disabilities of all ages who require assistance with daily tasks and community engagement. DSPs offer support in the following ways:

  • Assist clients with daily tasks: cooking, shopping, appointments, housekeeping, and medication management.
  • Instruct and motivate clients to perform tasks independently.
  • Provide guidance on life skills: interpersonal interactions, seeking help, financial management, etc.
  • Maintain accurate client records: case notes, daily activities, medication logs, financial documents, and behavioral assessments.

DSP Qualifications

  • Candidates must be able to work within the community or in a home-based setting.
  • DSPs should exhibit patience and empathy under stressful circumstances.
  • Interpersonal and excellent communication skills with all levels of personnel are a must.
  • Good moral character, dependability and maintaining confidentiality are required.
  • Proficiency with educational technology and observation skills for reporting are essential.
  • Candidates must have the strength and agility to handle physical aspects of the job including lifting, carrying, pushing, and bending.

Program Eligibility

  • Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and legally eligible to work in the United States.
  • Individuals with high school diplomas or equivalent who pass the background check, are eligible.
  • Current high school seniors are eligible but need to be 18 years old at the internship commencement.
  • A valid New Jersey driver’s license with fewer than 5 points in moving violations is required.
  • No previous experience is necessary.

Program Highlights

  • Receive comprehensive training on DSP competencies.
  • Access employer connections for internships and employment as a DSP.
  • Establish a career pathway for professional growth in the human and social service industry.

Program Components

  • DSP certificate course (32.5 Hours): This in-person course provides Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) with fundamental skills to promote person-centered planning, self-determination, and meaningful community participation to launch their career as DSPs.*
  • College of Direct Support (CDS) training (65 Hours): This state-mandated online training program for DSPs provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to support individuals with disabilities in a person-centered manner. **
  • Internship at an agency’s facility (80 Hours): Upon completion of the DSP Certificate course and the College of Direct Support (CDS) training, students will be connected with agencies and will complete the agency’s required application and onboarding process. Students must commit to consistent attendance and active participation throughout the internship period.**
            *Students will earn 3 credits for EDU-102 toward an Associate of Science Degree in Education at Bergen Community College if desired upon enrollment in the matriculation program.
            **Students will earn 1 credit for SOC-191 toward an Associate of Science Degree in Social Work at Bergen Community College if desired upon enrollment in the matriculation program.  For more information, please visit the college articulation page.

Meet our alumni and hear their stories!

If you are interested in the Direct Support Professional Program, please email Serene at [email protected].

Click here for a full course list with registration details

 

*NEW* Direct Support Professionals Career Advancement Grant

This grant supports the professional growth of individuals currently employed as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in New Jersey by providing financial assistance for college-level coursework in caring career fields. Eligible applicants must be employed as DSPs and enrolled, planning to enroll, or accepted into a course at one of New Jersey’s community colleges. Courses must be part of a program in social work, health care, or a related caring career, strengthening the quality of care for individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable populations.

  • Read the  PDF for more information on the DSP Career Advancement Grant.
  • For more information, contact Jake Farbman at [email protected].

Direct Support Professionals Career Development Center

As a student or graduate of the DSP program, you can access a full array of services and support at the DSP Career Center, located at the New Jersey Association of Community Providers (NJACP), including a mentor program, career guidance, and career pathway support. Please visit the NJACP website for more information.

 

The Direct Support Professionals Career Development Program is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.