What does a Direct Support Professional do?
Direct support professionals work closely with individuals who have disabilities or are recovering from illnesses or injuries. The job involves helping with daily tasks, assisting with aspects of medical care and providing companionship and support.
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Working as a Direct Support Professional
Some daily tasks of a direct support professional include:
- Supporting their client with day-to-day tasks, including housekeeping, personal care and hygiene, money management and other skills required
- Working with the client to support their medical needs, including arranging and attending appointments, administering medication and maintaining care records where appropriate
- Developing and implementing care plans for individuals, including setting goals and objectives, coaching, assessment and documentation of results
- Reporting directly to a community team manager, providing all relevant paperwork and ensuring that continuity of care is prioritized
- Taking positive steps to promote the individual's welfare including health and safety, risk assessments and seeking out opportunities to enhance the client's quality of life
How much does a Direct Support Professional make in the United States?
Average base salary
The average salary for a direct support professional is $15.81 per hour in the United States. 125.1k salaries reported, updated at January 25, 2023
Where can a Direct Support Professional earn more?
Compare salaries for Direct Support Professionals in different locations
How much do similar professions get paid in United States?
Direct Care Worker
41,304 job openingsAverage $14.79 per hour
In Home Caregiver
88,196 job openingsAverage $14.95 per hour
Home Health Aide
49,523 job openingsAverage $15.39 per hour
Direct Care Aide
151,386 job openingsAverage $14.57 per hour
Direct Service Provider
194,404 job openingsAverage $16.24 per hour
Common questions about for a Direct Support Professional
Can I work part-time as a direct support professional?
Direct support workers are required for a range of working patterns to meet the care needs of the individuals they are supporting, so there are shifts that will suit candidates who want regular hours as well as those who want to work flexibly.
Who do direct support professionals work with?
Individuals with physical, mental or developmental disabilities who need support with daily tasks, from cooking to administering medication. They are also responsible for advocating on behalf of their client to communicate their needs and engage with the wider community.
What's the best thing about being a direct support professional?
This important role can be hugely rewarding and it's a chance to make a real difference in someone's life. Helping someone to live an enjoyable and fulfilling life is a great use of anyone's skills and experience.
