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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Normal, IL

Lifelong Access is seeking a Mental Health Professional (MHP) . In this position, will work to ... of direct support which are identified in each clients' individualized treatment plans. We are ...

Direct Care Staff

Bloomington, IL ยท On-site

$18.75/hr

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Weekly direct deposit * 24/7 dedicated recruiter support * Professional onboarding and credentialing * Prepaid travel and lodging RecruitWell's Core Values: * Open communication * Sense of urgency

RBT/BT

Bloomington, IL ยท On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Direct Support: Implement individualized behavior intervention plans under the supervision of a ... Training: Participate in ongoing training and professional development to enhance skills and ...

RBT/BT

Bloomington, IL

$18.75 - $26/hr

Direct Support: Implement individualized behavior intervention plans under the supervision of a ... Training: Participate in ongoing training and professional development to enhance skills and ...

RBT/BT

Bloomington, IL ยท On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Direct Support: Implement individualized behavior intervention plans under the supervision of a ... Training: Participate in ongoing training and professional development to enhance skills and ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

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

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Normal, IL is $15.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Normal, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Normal, IL are:
What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Normal, IL with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:
Mental Health Professional

Mental Health Professional

Marcfirst

Bloomington, IL โ€ข On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Our mission at Lifelong Access is to connect individuals with developmental disabilities to their community by helping them break down barriers through a lifetime of meaningful supports. From birth to end of life, Lifelong Access provides a continuum of services and supports for families, children, teens, and adults including residential housing, vocational development, supported employment, high school transition, behavioral health counseling and services, and a wide variety of pediatric therapy supports. Guided by our Core Values, our team members have a strong drive and big hearts for improving the lives of others; a place where we support each other and the individuals who put their trust in us.
Lifelong Access is seeking a Mental Health Professional (MHP). In this position, will work to support the clinical treatment team through services for Lifelong Access clients who suffer from mental health disorders. Under the supervision of the Director of Behavioral Health and other QMHP staff, the MHP will assist with the provision of direct support which are identified in each clients' individualized treatment plans. We are excited to be growing our behavioral health clinic services and the exceptional team of professionals. With this growth, there will be promotional opportunities along with opportunities to earn clinical supervision hours provided by our staff within the clinic. Work with a caring and compassionate team of mental health professionals. Come see why we love what we do!
Minimum Starting Wage: $23 per hour
Job Type: Full-time
Primary responsibilities include:
  • Assist with clinical assessments and the development of client-centered treatment plans.
  • Ensure billable services are documented and submitted in accordance with applicable rules.
  • Implement treatment plans, as written, making recommendations for modifications, as needed.
  • Provide training to agency staff to support the implementation of treatment plans.
  • Complete case notes and other required documentation in compliance with regulations and agency policy.
  • Maintain files in accordance with applicable regulations and agency standards.
  • Employee may be asked to perform other duties as required by the employer's business needs.

Qualifications for this position include:
  • Bachelor's degree in counseling and guidance, rehabilitation counseling, social work, psychology, pastoral counseling, or:
    • A bachelor's degree in any other field with two years of documented clinical experience in a mental health setting under the supervision of a QMHP, or
    • A high school diploma or GED and a minimum of five years of documented clinical experience in mental health or human services
  • Ability to work in an environment with productivity targets
  • Desire and ability to work under supervision and cooperatively with a treatment team
  • High understanding of confidentiality
  • Valid Illinois driver's license with driving record in good standing
  • Current proof of automobile insurance

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this job. Requests for reasonable accommodations will be reviewed to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee occasionally is required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to fingers, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and distance vision.
Here are some of the benefits we will offer you:
  • Supportive, positive, and friendly team environment
  • Professional development, training, and advancement opportunities
  • Flexible schedule options
  • Comprehensive benefit plans
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, personal time, and holidays
  • Read more in our Employment Brochure

Lifelong Access is an Equal Opportunity Employer.