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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Ridgefield, CT

Opengate, Inc.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Somers, NY · On-site

$19.25 - $20.25/hr

Being a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is not just a job - it's a chance to be a positive force in someone's life journey. Locations: Somers, NY. Qualifications: * Previous experience working with ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Ridgefield, CT

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Ridgefield, CT salary details

$9

$16

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Ridgefield, CT is $16.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $17.50 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 are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Ridgefield, CT?

For Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Ridgefield, CT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Ridgefield, CT are:

What cities near Ridgefield, CT are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Ridgefield, CT with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Ridgefield, CT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,734 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional DSP

Hawthorne Foundation, Inc.

Hawthorne, NY • On-site

$17.07 - $21.31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Implement and carry out daily and weekly programs for individuals to help them achieve their personal goals.

  • Supervise and transport individuals to and from day programs and activities, ensuring vehicle cleanliness and safety.

  • Document individuals' progress by collecting and graphing data on their behavior and skill development.

Job description

 DSP

***NEW AND EXCITING NEWS! Hawthorne Foundation Inc. has implemented a generous SIGN-ON BONUS of $1500 for new full-time employees!***

  • $750– on completion of 3 months of employment
  • $750 -on completion of 6 months of employment


Organization Profile: Hawthorne Foundation Inc. serves children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Our educational, vocational and life skills programs are only a few of the programs available. We also offer parent training, recreational activities and crisis intervention.

Vision Statement:

To be a regional leader in advancing opportunities for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities through innovative instruction and support grounded in applied behavior analysis and person-centered practices.

Mission Statement:

Advancing opportunities for people with autism and other developmental disabilities through person-centered, evidence-based practices that strengthen skills, promote autonomy, and support meaningful participation in their communities.

We seek employees who are energetic, creative, and caring and those who always see the opportunity in a challenging situation.

Join a Team Where Your Contributions Make a Positive Difference in Someone's Life!

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays an integral role in the lives of the people we support. The DSP will provide direct assistance in all aspects of daily living, enabling the greatest level of independence possible and the best quality of life as one is able to experience. Depending on the needs of the individual, tasks could include providing direct personal care or assistance with: hygiene, housekeeping, laundry, cooking, medication and appointments, behavioral interventions, etc.

Requirements: HS/GED, a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive the agency van. No Prior experience needed (paid training).

Benefits Available for Full time and Part Time employees

OUR MISSION: To foster independence, integration, individualization and productivity while enhancing the quality of the lives for the people we serve. Our goal is to enable each and every individual to reach his or her maximum potential in the least restrictive environment by selecting and promoting educational practices that are grounded in research and science-in particular Applied Behavior Analysis and to assist each and every individual in identifying and realizing his or her own goals.
We have multiple locations within Westchester. Hiring for Full time, part time, over nights, and on call.

  • A “Fair Chance” job (you or the employer follow Fair Chance hiring practices when performing background checks)
  • A good fit for applicants with gaps in their resume, or who have been out of the workforce for the past 6 months or more
  • A good job for someone just entering the workforce or returning to the workforce with limited experience and education
  • Open to applicants who do not have a college diploma

Job Responsibilities (Day Habilitation Direct Support Professional-DSP):

  • The Direct Support Professional is directly responsible for specific group assigned and specific individuals
  • Responsible for implementation and collection of data of daily and weekly programs as assigned by supervisor for each individual in assigned group.
  • The Direct Support Professional assists in any clerical work.
  • Responsible for carrying out daily schedules as developed and planned.
  • The Direct Support Professional implements weekly and daily programs to assist each individual in attaining their individual goals.
  • Documents individuals progress in both increase and decrease programs on a daily basis (collects and graphs data).
  • The DSP is responsible for participating in behavior analysis training program.
  • Supervises and transports consumers from home to day program, and home again.
  • The Direct Support Professional returns vehicle in clean condition.
  • The Direct Support Professional drives consumers on all planned trips.

*MEDICAL/DENTAL/VISION BENEFITS *RETIREMENT PLAN* EDUCATION INCENTIVES*LIFE INSURANCE/AD&D*403B PLANS *PAID VACATION, HOLIDAY & SICK TIME FOR ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES.

OUR VISION: To foster independence, integration, individualization and productivity while enhancing the quality of the lives for the people we serve. Our goal is to enable each and every individual to reach his or her maximum potential in the least restrictive environment by selecting and promoting educational practices that are grounded in research and science-in particular Applied Behavior Analysis and to assist each and every individual in identifying and realizing his or her own goals


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