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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

AL Health Services

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Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

AL Health Services is seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide one-on-one support to individuals with intellectual and developmental ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Reston, VA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Reston, VA is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)?

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.

How much do DSP workers make?

Direct Support Professionals typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. In some cases, wages may be higher with specialized skills or in certain regions, and many DSPs work part-time or full-time schedules with benefits varying by employer.

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 is the work of a Direct Support Professional?

A Direct Support Professional provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, household tasks, and community integration. They often work in clients' homes or care facilities, requiring good communication skills and sometimes certification in CPR or first aid.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Direct Support Professional typically earns less than $10,000 a month; however, high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that level without a degree. These jobs often require strong interpersonal skills, self-motivation, and sometimes licensing or certifications, but they do not necessarily require a college degree.

What Is a Direct Support Professional?

Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide non-medical care and services to intellectually or physically disabled persons. These services may be in the patient's home, at assisted living facilities, or in government institutions. The primary duties of DSPs are to help the patient with everyday tasks, such as taking medication, providing transportation to doctor's appointments, and running errands. DSPs also aim to teach patients life skills, including light housework and meal preparation, to enable them to be a little more independent.

What is an example of a Direct Support Professional?

A Direct Support Professional is a trained caregiver who provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, medication management, and community integration. They often work in settings like homes, group homes, or community centers and may require certifications like CPR or first aid.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Reston, VA? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,238 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

DIVINE HOMES HEALTHCARE SERVICES LL

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Olive Oasis Healthcare LLC is currently hiring compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide in-home and community-based support services to individuals with developmental disabilities and other support needs throughout Northern Virginia.
Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time
Pay: Competitive, based on experience
Job Responsibilities
  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including personal care, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.
  • Support individuals in achieving greater independence at home and in the community.
  • Accompany individuals to appointments, recreational activities, and community outings.
  • Provide companionship, emotional support, and encouragement.
  • Assist with community engagement and skill-building activities.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and follow individualized service plans.
  • Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served.
Qualifications
  • Spanish-speaking candidates strongly preferred.
  • Previous experience as a DSP, PCA, Caregiver, Home Health Aide, or in a related human services field preferred.
  • Compassionate, patient, reliable, and professional.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.
  • Ability to pass a background check and meet state requirements.
  • CPR/First Aid certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).
Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Flexible schedules
  • Paid training
  • Supportive team environment
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Meaningful and rewarding work
If you are passionate about helping others live independently and thrive in their communities, we encourage you to apply today and become part of the Olive Oasis Healthcare team.