PT Direct Support Professional

## Description

## **General Description**

At Shared Wellness, we provide compassionate, person-centered care that emphasizes dignity, respect, and empowerment. We believe in working "side by side" with individuals, promoting independence and personal growth through a collaborative approach.

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will support individuals with intellectual disabilities in achieving their goals and navigating daily activities. You will foster independence, inclusion, and self-confidence while maintaining a safe and supportive environment.

Guided by our core principles of inclusivity, accessibility, and compassion, you will play a vital role in helping individuals live fulfilling, balanced lives. Join us in making a meaningful impact every day.

## Qualifications

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated direct support professional to join our team at **Shared Wellness**. In this role, you’ll provide meaningful support to individuals in their daily lives—helping with personal care, fostering independence, and encouraging community involvement. This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to build authentic connections, empower others to reach their goals, and make a lasting difference every day.

If you would like additional information, please email me at [[email hidden]](mailto:[email hidden])

**Role and Responsibilities**

**Key Responsibilities:**

• **Provide Direct Assistance**: Work alongside individuals, assisting them in daily activities, such as personal care, household tasks, and community engagement, while encouraging independence and self-reliance.
• **Embrace a Side-by-Side Mindset**: Partner with individuals, allowing them to take the lead whenever possible and creating a supportive environment to help them build confidence in their abilities.
• **Support Personal Development**: Assist with skill-building and encourage individuals to take steps towards their personal goals in areas such as employment, education, and socialization.
• **Promote Community Integration**: Encourage community involvement, guiding individuals to explore, participate, and become active members of their communities while respecting their preferences and comfort levels.
• **Ensure Health and Safety**: Maintain a safe and healthy environment for all, practicing standard safety protocols and responding promptly to any health or behavioral concerns.
• **Document Progress**: Keep accurate records of daily activities, progress toward goals, and any relevant observations, using these to collaborate with team members on individualized support plans.

**Program Responsibilities**

• Provide 24-hour support in a 1:1 or 2:1 setting to ensure individuals’ safety and well-being.
• Accompany individuals to medical appointments as directed by the Program Specialist.
• Maintain a safe, comfortable, and personalized living environment.
• Foster a collaborative team approach to enhance individualized support.
• Perform household cleaning tasks as required to maintain a healthy living space.
• Communicate effectively during shift transitions to ensure continuity of care.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques to address behavioral concerns and maintain safety.
• Review and adhere to each individual's **Individual Support Plan (ISP)** and **Behavior Support Plan (BSP).**
• Provide transportation and facilitate participation in community activities.
• Assist with personal care and daily living tasks in alignment with the ISP and BSP.
• Attend monthly Circle meetings as required by the Program Specialist.
• Support the development of healthy relationships and effective communication skills.
• Identify and facilitate activities and volunteer opportunities based on individual interests in collaboration with the Program Specialist.

**Administrative Responsibilities**

• Accurately log hours worked in real-time using the designated phone application.
• Review and verify timecards as needed in a timely manner.
• Complete and submit shift notes immediately following each shift.
• Participate in required annual training as directed by the Training Coordinator.
• Adhere to all organizational policies and procedures to ensure compliance and best practices.

**Qualifications:**

• **Experience**: Prior experience in caregiving, social work, or similar roles is beneficial but not required.
• **Mindset**: A passion for a side-by-side approach, with the belief that each individual’s journey is unique and should be respected and empowered.
• **Skills**: Strong communication, patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
• **Requirements**: Ability to lift or assist individuals with physical support, flexibility to work various shifts, and a valid driver’s license if required for community-based activities.

**Education and Other Requirements:**

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Driver’s License

Shared Wellness is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, s ex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status