Direct Support Professional

$33,800 - $41,371/Yr

The Devereux Foundation

Full-time - Entry Level

Ambulatory Health Care Services

About the position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) role at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida is focused on providing essential support to children and adolescents facing emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. This position involves assisting with daily living activities, implementing behavior management plans, facilitating skill development, and ensuring the safety and well-being of clients through effective crisis intervention and documentation. The DSP will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to enhance the quality of care and support for individuals in a residential facility.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.
• Implement behavior management plans and support individuals in developing coping strategies.
• Facilitate skill-building activities, including social skills, communication, and life skills training.
• Recognize signs of distress and de-escalate situations effectively and safely.
• Maintain accurate records of client progress, incidents, and daily activities.
• Assist clients with transportation to appointments, community activities, or school.
• Work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including therapists, nurses, and family members.
• Participate in ongoing training to stay updated on best practices in behavioral health support.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, or Social Work preferred.
• Experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), DSP, Direct Care, or Behavior Technician with experience working with IDD, Mental Health, and/or dually diagnosed populations preferred.
• Must complete a two-week new hire orientation class.
• Valid driver's license and ability to drive Devereux vehicles.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral challenges.
• Knowledge of behavior management techniques and crisis intervention strategies.

Benefits

• Paid time off (24 days per year, increasing with years of service)
• Sick time (64 hours per year)
• 403(b) retirement plan through TIAA
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Pet insurance
• Student loan debt assistance
• ASCEND tuition program covering up to $15k for undergraduate and $25k for graduate studies
• Free access to Payactiv for earned wages between pay periods
• Employee Assistance Program and discounts
• Service awards for long-term commitment.