“A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is someone who works directly with people who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. DSPs aim to assist people in realizing their full potential. They help people become integrated and engaged in their community.
In the past, DSPs were trained as caregivers. But over the past few decades, the needs of those being served changed. Therefore, the roles of DSPs began to change. Now, DSPs take on different aspects and roles than caregiving. It is no longer about doing things for people. It is about helping them learn how to do things for themselves.” [1]
What does a direct support professional do?
“A direct support professional (DSP), assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They help with everyday tasks such as housekeeping, meal preparation, attending appointments and running errands. Depending on the patient’s condition, a DSP may also administer medications, develop a behavioral management plan and maintain medical records. Other job duties include:
- Teaching life skills.
- Maintaining a safe living environment that adheres to state codes and regulations.
- Offering counseling and crisis intervention.
- Assisting individuals with money management, housekeeping, personal hygiene and other routine needs.
- Providing transportation to social outings, doctor appointments and other activities.
- Maintaining regular paperwork, including fiscal reports, behavioral assessments, medication logs, casework notes and daily activity logs.
- Documenting changes and updates digitally.
- Maintaining extensive knowledge of patients’ needs.
- Promoting independence while providing the necessary support.
- Delivering individualized support for each patient.
- Establishing a safe and trusting relationship with patients” [2]
National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week
“Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week has been celebrated annually since 2008 to honor the important contributions of DSPs. The week recognizes the role DSPs play in helping people with disabilities live independently and participate in their communities.” [3]
“The NADSP co-sponsors National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week., sponsored by the United States Senate and 35 state Governors, the 2013 recognition week was the most widely accepted in its five-year history.” [3]
“Direct Support Professional Recognition Week is a great opportunity to highlight the dedicated, innovative direct support workforce that is the heart and soul of supports for people with disabilities.” [4]
Resources
[1] https://workforcetransformation.org/dsps-different-from-caregivers/
[2] https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-a-direct-support-professional-do
[3] https://nadsp.org/about-us/our-history/
[4] https://www.ancor.org/event/direct-support-professional-recognition-week-2025/