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Developmental Disabilities Professional Jobs in Michigan

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Developmental Disabilities Professional information

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a developmental disabilities professional?

To thrive as a Developmental Disabilities Professional, you need a solid background in psychology, social work, or a related field—often requiring a relevant degree and state-specific certification or licensure. Familiarity with individualized support plans (ISPs), case management software, and compliance documentation systems is typically necessary. Strong advocacy, interpersonal communication, and problem-solving skills help build trust and effectively support individuals with developmental disabilities. These skills are crucial to ensure person-centered care, regulatory compliance, and improved outcomes for clients.

What challenges does a developmental disabilities professional face when supporting individuals with diverse needs?

Developmental Disabilities Professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing individualized care plans with limited resources, navigating complex family dynamics, and ensuring effective communication with multidisciplinary teams. Managing paperwork and compliance requirements alongside direct support duties can also be demanding. However, these challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, collaboration with colleagues, and strong organizational support, which help professionals provide the best possible care while maintaining work-life balance.

What is the difference between Developmental Disabilities Professional vs Behavior Analyst?

AspectDevelopmental Disabilities ProfessionalBehavior Analyst
CredentialsVaries; often requires a degree in social work, psychology, or related fieldBoard Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity agencies, schools, residential facilitiesClinical settings, schools, private practice
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government programs, healthcare providersHealthcare, education, private consulting

While both roles support individuals with developmental disabilities, a Developmental Disabilities Professional provides broader support and coordination, whereas a Behavior Analyst specializes in designing and implementing behavior intervention plans based on behavioral analysis principles.

What is a developmental disabilities professional?

Developmental Disabilities Professionals (DDPs) are specialists who provide support, coordination, and oversight for individuals with developmental disabilities. They assess needs, develop care plans, and ensure that services and supports meet regulatory and individual requirements. DDPs often work in settings such as group homes, community agencies, or state programs, advocating for client rights and facilitating access to necessary resources. Their role is vital in promoting independence and improving the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities.
What are popular job titles related to Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs in Michigan? For Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Michigan are hiring for Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Developmental Disabilities Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disabilities Professional job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Therapist Developmental Disabilities

The Guidance Center

Southgate, MI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description

As a recognized leader in our field, The Guidance Center provides a broad range of services that have helped children, adults and families unlock potential and build better lives since 1958. With 25 programs we offer treatment, prevention, growth and education services to more than 14,200 people annually. The Guidance Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a welcoming place for everyone.


This position offers a $3,000 sign on bonus!


The Therapist is responsible for evaluations of people receiving services in intellectual or developmental disabilities to determine what interventions are medically necessary and will provide direct therapeutic interventions to people receiving services. The Therapist is also responsible for the development of treatment plans, biopsychosocial and lethality assessments; thorough assessments to determine medically necessary interventions, individual counseling, parent training, behavior modifications plans, and crisis intervention. A minimum of 4 hours per week after 5:00 p.m. will be required. This Therapist position is in our Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities program.


Specific Responsibilities include

  • Administer evaluations of people receiving services to determine what services are medically necessary and provide written reports
  • Provide consultation to staff/guardians/families regarding people receiving therapeutic intervention at the agency, when appropriate.
  • Provide direct counseling services to individuals and families
  • Conduct staff in-services specific to people served to assigned direct care staff
  • When appropriate present information to the Behavior Treatment Committee for review and approval
  • Participate in the development and implementation of treatment plans determined by the needs and desires of the person receiving services
  • Obtain, analyze and evaluate significant data so as to develop service plans and construct programs utilizing a combination of treatment modalities and skills
  • Provide therapeutic support services to children and families.
  • Develop and maintain written records necessary for professional practice as defined in the policy and procedural manual
  • Must complete 24 hours of program and or position specific training on an annual basis
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 

Requirements

  • Must possess a Master's degree in Social Work, Professional Counseling or Psychology from an accredited college or university.
  • Must have and retain a valid LLMSW, LMSW, LLPC or LPC or TLLP or LLP with the State of Michigan and have at least (7) months experience working with persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, including autism. LLMSW or LMSW preferred.
  • Candidate must meet the criteria for Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Profession (QIDP) and Children's Mental Health Professional (CMHP) within four (4) months of hire which states that an appropriate candidate has one year experience in the examination, evaluation and treatment of minors and their families. Group experience and home-based service experience are preferred.
  • Additional requirements include: a nonjudgmental approach that reflects cultural competency and sensitivity to the unique needs and diverse experiences of individual families, the ability to engage and maintain clinical relationships with families, the ability to develop collaborative relationships with other providers, effective interpersonal communication skills, the ability to assess and intervene within complex family and community systems, and a willingness to be flexible, patient and creative.

The Guidance Center believes that our team members are our most valuable resources, and we invest in them accordingly.

The Guidance Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a welcoming place for everyone.