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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Easley, SC

Alternative Family Living (DSP)

Brevard, NC · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

As an AFL Direct Support Professional (DSP). you will assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), community participation, and behavioral support while helping clients live independently. If you ...

Alternative Family Living (DSP)

Brevard, NC · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

As an AFL Direct Support Professional (DSP). you will assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), community participation, and behavioral support while helping clients live independently. If you ...

The DSP will provide a caring, respectful, and empowering environment for our clients. Direct Support Professionals work with clients on individual goals to achieve the highest level of independence.

The DSP will provide a caring, respectful, and empowering environment for our clients. Direct Support Professionals work with clients on individual goals to achieve the highest level of independence.

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Easley, SC salary details

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How much do direct support professional dsp jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Easley, SC is $15.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional (DSP)?

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver who assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. DSPs help with personal care, skill development, community involvement, and fostering independence. Their work may include assisting with bathing, meal preparation, transportation, and providing emotional support. DSPs play a vital role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life for those they support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional (DSP), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, medication administration, and CPR/First Aid certifications are often required. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities distinguish exceptional DSPs. These skills ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of individuals receiving support, fostering a positive and empowering environment.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support professionals (DSPs) and how can they be managed?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable behaviors, balancing the needs of multiple clients, and maintaining clear communication with both clients and their families. Building strong relationships, utilizing de-escalation techniques, and participating in ongoing training can help DSPs navigate these situations effectively. Team collaboration and regular support from supervisors also play a vital role in overcoming daily hurdles and ensuring high-quality care.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professional Dsp vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support Professional DspPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and state-specific trainingMay require similar certifications, but less frequently mandated
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProvides personal care in private homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryHuman services agencies, non-profits, government programsHome healthcare agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Professionals typically work with people with disabilities in community or residential settings, requiring specific certifications. Personal Care Assistants often work in private homes, focusing on personal hygiene and daily living tasks, with slightly different certification requirements. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and career paths in the caregiving industry.

Is being a direct support professional a stressful job?

Being a direct support professional can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging behaviors, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find it rewarding and develop coping strategies to manage stress effectively.

What jobs can I get with a direct support professional certification?

A direct support professional (DSP) certification qualifies individuals for roles providing assistance to people with disabilities, such as direct support worker, behavioral technician, residential care aide, or personal care assistant. These jobs typically involve helping clients with daily activities, implementing care plans, and supporting independence in community or residential settings. Certification often enhances employment prospects and may be required by employers or state regulations.

Where do direct support professionals get paid the most?

Direct Support Professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services, such as certain metropolitan areas. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence salary levels, with some states or cities offering premium pay for specialized skills or longer tenure.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Easley, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Easley, SC are:

What cities near Easley, SC are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Easley, SC with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Easley, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,783 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Alternative Family Living (DSP)

Abound Health

Brevard, NC • On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 17 days ago


Abound Health rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

99th of 245 rated social care providers


Job description

Become a Alternative Family Living (DSP) with Abound Health
Make a Lasting Impact by Welcoming Someone into Your Home and Daily Life
Location: Asheville, Hendersonville & Surrounding Western Communities
Position Type: Contract
Organization: Abound Health
Abound Health is hiring Alternative Family Living Direct Support Professionals to provide caregiving and daily living support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As an AFL Direct Support Professional (DSP). you will assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), community participation, and behavioral support while helping clients live independently. If you are compassionate, reliable, and looking for meaningful work where you can make a real difference, we would love to meet you!
This opportunity is ideal for individuals or families who value routine, enjoy community involvement, and are committed to helping someone build confidence and daily living skills through steady, relationship-based support.
What Is Alternative Family Living?
AFL is short for Alternative Family Living. AFL is a residential setting such as a single-family home, condo, townhouse, modular home or apartment. The AFL setting is sometimes referred to as an AFL home.
� The staff who lives in the AFL home that is getting paid to provide services to the Client is the AFL Direct Support Professional (DSP).
� AFL is a residential service provided in the primary residence of an AFL DSP (and their family) who receives reimbursement for the cost of care. This service is designed to provide care and support in a home environment for persons diagnosed with intellectual, emotional, and/or developmental disabilities.
What You'll Do as an Alternative Family Living contractor
� Provide a safe, stable, and welcoming home
� Support daily living skills, routines, and healthy habits
� Offer mentorship, companionship, and emotional support
� Encourage community involvement and recreational activities
� Help the individual stay active through walkable, local outings
� Collaborate with Abound Health to follow person-centered plans
� Promote independence, dignity, and personal growth
Why Become an AFL?
� Transform a Life: Help an individual grow their independence and confidence
� Build Deep Connections: Form a meaningful, long-term relationship
� Work From Home: Provide support while maintaining your own routines
� Receive Support & Compensation: Alternative Family Living receive a daily stipend and ongoing training
� 24/7 Support: Abound Health provides emergency support, respite coordination, and clinical consultation
Alternative Family Living Requirements
To qualify, families must:
� Be North Carolina residents (Asheville, Hendersonville area strongly preferred)
� Be at least 21 years old
� Pass required background checks (FBI, child abuse, criminal)
� Complete home inspections and meet safety standards
� Provide personal and professional references
� Participate in interviews and a matching assessment
� Be willing to include the individual in meals, routines, activities, and family life
Training Provided at No Cost
All Alternative Family Living families receive:
� Abound Health-approved Alternative Family Living Orientation
� Fire Safety & Emergency Preparedness
� Medication Administration (if applicable)
� Individual Rights & Person-Centered Planning
� Ongoing annual training (e.g., trauma-informed care, dignity & respect)
Additional Details
� Contract Position: AFL Direct Support Professional (DSP) are independent contractors
� Flexible Matching: We work closely with you to ensure compatibility
� Ongoing Support: 24/7 emergency assistance, respite options, and case management
How to Apply
If you're interested in supporting an individual through Alternative Family Living Program � or want to learn more about becoming an AFL provider � please contact: demetrik.wilson@aboundhealth.com
Abound Health proudly supports inclusive, diverse families of all backgrounds and compositions. Join us in building relationships that change lives � one home at a time.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Abound Health is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, disability/handicap status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

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