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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Henry, IL (NOW HIRING)

All Ways Caring HomeCare

Life Skills Coach

Peoria, IL

$20/hr

Caregivers and Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are the heart of our company with their compassion, dependability, and care. If you want to make an impact by helping people live their best life ...

BrightSpring Health Services

Life Skills Coach

Peoria, IL

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Caregivers and Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are the heart of our company with their compassion, dependability, and care. If you want to make an impact by helping people live their best life ...

All Ways Caring HomeCare

Life Skills Coach

Peoria, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Caregivers and Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are the heart of our company with their compassion, dependability, and care. If you want to make an impact by helping people live their best life ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Henry, IL

Direct Support Professional information

See Henry, IL salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Henry, IL is $17.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.61 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
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Henry, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Henry, IL are:
What cities near Henry, IL are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Henry, IL with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Henry, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,885 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Gateway Services, Inc

Princeton, IL • On-site

$21.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Every person needs the support of others, Gateway Services, Inc. is looking for person centered, caring people to support individuals with intellectual disabilities. Our goal is to ensure the people we serve achieve their highest quality of life and personal growth. As a Direct Support Professional, you will be a member of a team who helps provides essential services. On a day-to-day basis, this position will assist individuals when needed in the performance of work, recreation, and activities around the house. Other duties may include shopping, or activities within their community. The position does include personal care with grooming, bathing and feeding. Paid training. Applicants must be willing to work early morning, 2nd shift, or 3rd shift including every other weekend and holidays, and must possess a high school diploma or GED, be 18 years of age or older, and have a valid drivers license. Pre-employment physical and drug screen required. If you'd like to make a difference in the lives of others, applications can be obtained by visiting our office at 535 Elm Place, Princeton. EOE/EEOC

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