Day Program Counselor Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional - Day Program Counselor (DSP)

Passionate Direct Support Professional Wanted!

Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with co-occurring disorders? Join our team at Rock Creek where passion drives everything we do!

About Us: At Rock Creek, we believe in empowering individuals to live fulfilling and independent lives. We provide comprehensive support services to individuals with intellectual, developmental disabilities and co-occurring disorders, fostering their growth, independence, and happiness. At Rock Creek, we're not just a team – we're a family driven by love, compassion, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves to live a life filled with purpose and joy.

Your Mission: As a Direct Support Professional - Day Program Counselor (DSP) at Rock Creek you'll be at the heart of our mission. You'll have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of our consumers every single day. From assisting with daily living activities to providing emotional support and encouragement, you'll play a vital role in helping our consumers achieve their goals and dreams. You’ll also be the guiding light that illuminates the path to a brighter future for our clients. From celebrating victories big and small to offering a shoulder to lean on during challenging times, you'll be the heartbeat of hope that fuels their journey toward independence and fulfillment.

Why Join Us:

• Make a Difference: Experience the joy of knowing that your work directly improves the lives of others.
• Rewarding Work: Be part of a supportive team environment where your contributions are valued and recognized.
• Personal Growth: Receive ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy flexible scheduling options that allow you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Passionate Community: Join a passionate community of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

What You'll Do:

• Provide daily engagement and support to adults with IDD in program activities and community integration.
• Assist with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, feeding, hygiene, grooming) depending on individual support plans.
• Foster social skills, independence, and meaningful community participation through structured activities.
• Lead and facilitate group activities and individualized skill-building experiences that align with each participant’s interests and goals.
• Support vocational exploration, community outings, hobbies, or leisure activities as part of a meaningful day agenda.
• Help participants pursue employment-related activities (e.g., pre-employment training, job coaching) when part of the program model.
• Maintain accurate documentation including progress notes, incident reports, and daily logs for each participant.
• Report observations on behavior, participation, goals, progress, and any changes in needs.
• Contribute to periodic reviews and updates of individual person-centered plans (PCP) as needed.

• Provide or oversee safe transport to off-site activities, appointments, and community outings when required by the program.
• Ensure participant safety in community settings, monitor behavior, and follow risk management practices.
• Work collaboratively with other staff, supervisors, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
• Promote participant self-determination, choice, and dignity, using person-centered practices.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development to improve service delivery.

What We Require:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must possess a valid driver’s license with no more than 3 points and have access to a vehicle for work purposes.
• Must have proof of car insurance.
• High School Diploma (or equivalent) and a minimum of two (2) years’ experience working with adults diagnosed with varying intellectual disabilities and/or developmental disabilities.
• Must be able to work individually as well as within a team. Must be able to multi-task.
• Must be able to work with “high-risk” consumers who have development or intellectual disabilities as well as mental illnesses and physical disabilities.
• We expect all staff to have a strong desire to provide excellent customer service.
• We expect all staff to have a strong desire to provide excellent customer service; to comply with the rules and regulations of those organizations to which we are accountable; to have high ethical and professional standards of conduct; and to have an attitude of wanting to continuously improve their own professional performance.
• Must be able to effectively and professionally communicate with other staff and individuals served.

Qualifications:

• Compassionate and caring nature
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Training in CPR/First Aid, Medication administration training if applicable
• DDA core trainings.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Patience, creativity, and ability to adapt activities to individual needs
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities (preferred).
• Ability to pass background checks and FBI fingerprinting.

What We Offer

At The Rock Creek Foundation, you’re not just an employee — you’re a valued change agent. Here’s what you can expect:

• Schedule: M - F 8:30am - 4:30pm
• Hourly Rate Range: $20.00 - $21.00
• Robust Retirement Plan – 403(b) with company match to support your future.
• Health Coverage That Cares – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Time to Recharge – Generous paid time off.
• Celebrate You – Enjoy your birthday off every year!
• Training & Growth – Ongoing development programs and career advancement opportunities.
• Culture of Purpose – A welcoming, inclusive environment where you belong.
• Tuition Reimbursement – Invest in your education, and we’ll support you.
• Employee Assistance Program – Confidential support for life's challenges.
• Wellness Perks – Annual wellness initiatives and access to the Calm App.
• Recognition & Rewards – Through our Awardco platform and referral program.
• Exclusive Discounts – Enjoy deals through FunEx and more.
• Comprehensive Insurance –
  • Life and AD&D insurance provided at no cost
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Optional legal assistance and transferable life insurance
  • Pet insurance for your furry family
  • Ancillary plans like critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity
• Financial Flexibility – Flexible spending accounts (FSA) to help with healthcare and dependent care expenses.

 Disclaimers:

Rock Creek Foundation aspires to create an organization that places value on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and inclusivity. To achieve this success, it is essential that all members of our organization feel secure, welcomed, and respected. All members of our organization have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Rock Creek Foundation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job. Rock Creek Foundation participates in E-Verify. http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf