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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

8900 JFK, LLC

Direct Support Professional

Little Rock, AR

$12.25 - $15/hr

The Gardens of Arkansas Direct Support Professional-DSP Position Summary The Direct Support Professional supports individuals in a therapeutic community to live meaningful self-directed lives. The ...

GVAL, LLC

Direct Support Professional

Little Rock, AR

$15 - $16/hr

The Gardens of Arkansas Direct Support Professional-DSP Day Shift 7am - 7 pm Night Shift 7pm-7am Shift A - Monday - Wednesday every other Sunday Shift B - Thursday - Saturday every other Sunday ...

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See Arkansas salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Arkansas is $13.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.92 and $14.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They help with personal care, medication management, meal preparation, and transportation, while also supporting clients in achieving personal goals and participating in community activities. DSPs play a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life for those they support.

What are some common challenges direct support professionals face when supporting individuals with disabilities, and how can they effectively handle them?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral outbursts, ensuring effective communication with nonverbal individuals, and balancing the need for independence with safety. Handling these situations requires patience, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills. Many DSPs find it helpful to use individualized behavior support plans, maintain clear communication with team members, and participate in ongoing training. Building trust and understanding the unique needs of each individual also play a key role in overcoming daily challenges.

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

AspectDirect Support ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProviding personal care in private homes or facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome care agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, often requiring similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. However, Direct Support Professionals typically work in community or residential settings supporting people with disabilities, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care services in private homes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the role that best matches their skills and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional, 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, incident reporting tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and empathy are crucial soft skills for effectively supporting individuals and building trust. These skills are vital for ensuring client safety, promoting independence, and delivering compassionate care tailored to each individual's needs.

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. States or cities with a strong focus on healthcare, social services, or specialized care often offer higher pay rates for this role. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence salary levels.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs
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What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Arkansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,008 per year, or $13.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

8900 JFK, LLC

Little Rock, AR

$12.25 - $15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

The Gardens of Arkansas

Direct Support Professional-DSP

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional supports individuals in a therapeutic community to live meaningful self-directed lives. The role is grounded in person-centered practices and emphasizes dignity, recovery, choice, and holistic well-being. DSPs focus on what matters to the whole individual while promoting safety, growth, and community connection.

Core Responsibilities

Person-Centered and Therapeutic Support

-Supports individuals based on personal goals, recovery plans, strengths, and preferences

-Use trauma-informed and recovery-oriented approaches in daily interactions

-Encourage self-determination, voice, and shared decision-making

-Foster emotional safety, trust, and therapeutic relationships

Health, Safety, and Emotional Well-Being

-Balance dignity of risk with health and safety needs

-Monitor and report changes in mental, emotional, or physical health

-Support medication administration per training and policy when applicable

-Follow individualized treatment and safety plans

Skill Building and Recovery Support

-Assist individuals in developing coping skills, daily living skills, and emotional regulation

-Encourage independence and resilience using strength-based coaching

-Support progress toward therapeutic and life goals

Community Integration and Meaningful Engagement

-Support participation in meaningful activities within and outside the community

-Encourage healthy relationships and social connections

-Promote routines that support wellness, purpose, and structure

Rights, Ethics, and Professional Responsibility

-Protect individual rights, confidentiality, and dignity at all times.

-Recognize and report abuse, neglect or exploitation immediately

-Maintain professional boundaries and ethical conduct

-Demonstrate respect for diversity, culture, and lived experience

Documentation and Team Collaboration

-Complete accurate and timely documentation reflecting outcomes and progress

-Communicate effectively with clinical, nursing, and leadership teams.

- Participate in treatment planning, training, and team meetings.

Qualifications

- High school diploma or GED required

- Experience of one year in mental health or therapeutic settings

- Ability to pass background checks and required screenings

- CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain

- Commitment to person-centered and recovery and recovery-oriented care.

Organizational Commitment

The Gardens of Arkansas is committed to creating a therapeutic and respectful workplace where Direct Support Professionals are valued as essential partners in supporting recovery, dignity, and quality of life.