Direct Support Professional/ Allentown Position Available In Northampton, Pennsylvania

Job Description SummaryThe Behavioral Health Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital role in supporting individuals with mental health and/or behavioral health challenges in the home and community. Working closely with each person, the DSP implements tailored services that align with the individual’s goals and desired outcomes. In this role, the DSP takes the time to understand each person’s unique background, including personal history, family, social connections, and future aspirations. Guided by supervision and direction, the DSP fosters a respectful and empowering environment.

Job Description

• DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists the person(s) receiving services in identifying and communicating his or her requests and needs for services and support
• Promote and support a healthy lifestyle by educating on wellness practices and implementing strategies to prevent illness and accidents
• Foster self-advocacy and encourage individual choice and decision-making aligned with personal goals
• Accompany and support individuals in community activities such as work, movies, concerts, shopping, and other social outings to promote social engagement
• Teach and support the development of independent living skills, enhancing self-sufficiency in daily activities
• Provide safe and reliable transportation to appointments and community engagements
• Foster positive relationships and inclusivity within the community, encouraging integration and a sense of belonging
• Support and guide decision-making related to living arrangements, employment, and social relationships, respecting individual preferences
• Assist with personal care tasks, including bathing and hygiene, as well as household chores like laundry, cleaning, and decorating, to maintain a comfortable living environment
• Document all services provided to ensure accurate records and effective communication among support teams
• Understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with mental health and behavioral health challenges and utilize advocacy strategies to address barriers
• Connect individuals to resources that support career exploration, educational opportunities, volunteerism, and personal growth
• Promote effective communication, ensuring all interactions are respectful, clear, and supportive of the individual’s needs
• Administer medications when allowed by state regulations, following all safety and procedural guidelines
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding personal information, adhering to all legal and ethical standards
• Perform additional duties as assigned and enhance service quality. 

• SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

   

• This position has no supervisory responsibilities. 

• MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Meet all pre-employment screening
• Valid driver’s license 

• PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Regularly required to lift 30 lbs
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 lbs
• Must be able to pull a minimum of 25 lbs
• Must be able to squat, kneel, crawl, crouch, climb, and stoop
• Must be able to regularly use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls
• Required to regularly stand and walk
• Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in CPR from the floor level requiring to work on hands, knees, bending, standing, and lifting
• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, and peripheral vision
• Must be able to talk and hear.

 RHA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, prohibits discrimination based on the following protected categories: race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex/gender, marital status, civil status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hered tary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, or disability.