(DSP) Behavioral Support Focus

Position Summary

The DSP provides direct care, supervision, behavioral support, and skill-building services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who may present with behavioral, emotional, or mental health challenges. DSPs maintain a safe, structured, trauma-informed, and person-centered home environment while implementing (ISPs) Individual Service Plans. Behavior Support Plans (BSPs), and safety protocols.

This position requires heightened awareness, proactive behavior monitoring, de-escalation skills, and precise documentation.

Core Responsibilities Residential Care & ADLs Assist with bathing, hygiene, dressing, toileting, eating, and mobility Support residents in daily routines while promoting independence Provide structure and consistency in daily schedules

Behavioral Support Implementation DSPs are responsible for active behavioral supervision: Implement Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) exactly as written Identify early warning signs of behavioral escalation Use approved de-escalation and redirection techniques Maintain calm, neutral, and supportive communication Use positive reinforcement strategies Avoid power struggles or confrontational responses Document all behavioral incidents objectively

Crisis Prevention & Response When behaviors escalate, DSPs must

Follow crisis prevention protocols Maintain safety of all residents and staff Remove potential environmental triggers Use approved intervention techniques only Immediately notify supervisor for high-risk incidents Complete required incident documentation DSPs do not use physical intervention unless trained, authorized, and policy allows.

Supervision & Safety Monitoring Maintain continuous line-of-sight supervision when required Conduct routine checks and headcounts Monitor interactions between residents Reduce environmental risks and triggers Follow elopement prevention procedures

Skill Building & Emotional Regulation Support Support coping skills and self-regulation strategies Teach communication and social skills Encourage problem-solving and self-advocacy Model appropriate behavior

Health Monitoring & Medication Support When authorized

Assist with medication administration Monitor for side effects impacting behavior Report changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or functioning

Documentation Requirements DSPs must document

Daily service notes with behavior and support details Interventions used and resident response Behavioral data tracking Incidents and safety concerns Medication observations Notes must reflect active support, not passive supervision.

Rights, Dignity & Trauma-Informed Care Maintain respect and dignity at all times Avoid coercive or punitive approaches Support resident voice and choice Recognize trauma triggers and respond appropriately

Team Communication Communicate behavioral trends to supervisors Participate in team meetings Support implementation of clinical recommendations

Scope of Practice DSPs do not

Provide clinical therapy Modify BSPs Conduct psychological assessments Use unauthorized restraint or intervention

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED Ability to work with individuals with behavioral challenges Ability to pass background screening

Preferred Experience in behavioral or mental health settings CPI or crisis intervention training Residential IDD experience

Physical Requirements Ability to assist residents physically Ability to respond quickly during emergencies Ability to maintain stamina for active supervision

Acknowledgment I understand the behavioral supervision responsibilities required for this DSP position.