Monarch employs over 800 direct support professionals (DSPs) who assist, guide and empower the people we support who are living with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance use disorders. The work of DSPs is truly invaluable, as they go above and beyond to help others live the best life they can. For the people they support, DSPs are not only caregivers but also trusted friends, patient listeners and sources of comfort.
What is a direct support professional?
A DSP plays an important role in helping individuals, especially those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), live independent and fulfilling lives. These professionals assist with daily living activities, encourage social participation and help people take part in their communities. DSPs work closely with individuals in long-term care or community-based settings, providing support and guidance that is both meaningful and essential.
What does a DSP do?
A DSP’s role can vary from day to day but their main focus is always on helping individuals with I/DD or mental illness live self-directed, independent lives. They help with tasks like personal care, cooking and cleaning, but also support people emotionally, socially and mentally. Direct Support Professionals are advocates, confidants, teachers, friends and mentors to those they serve.
The relationships that develop between DSPs and the people they support are often deep and meaningful. These professionals build trust and create lasting connections that help people feel safe and valued. To the people they support, a DSP might be like family — a shoulder to cry on, someone to cheer them on, or just a friend to spend time with.
Monarch celebrates the incredible work of DSPs each year during DSP Appreciation Week in September. This week honors the hard work, dedication, and care that DSPs bring to their jobs every day.
Christy Shaver, Monarch’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Long-Term Services and Supports, shares her thoughts on the importance of DSPs. She believes they are one of the most important parts of the organization. “Monarch direct care staff work face-to-face with the people we support,” Shaver explains. “We rely on frontline staff to build lasting, trusting relationships. These connections are what make families and people trust us with their care.”
Support and Service: the Impact of DSPs
The emotional bond between DSPs and the people they support is often unique and deep. Shaver mentions that “the emotional attachment” between a DSP and someone they help is special. Many times, DSPs connect with the people they serve in the same way they would with their own families.
Shaver emphasizes that being a DSP requires many different skills. “A DSP might be a teacher, a coach, a friend or just someone to listen,” she says. “The ability to switch between these roles is a skill that comes from truly caring about others and wanting to help them grow.”
In short, DSPs are essential to the success of long-term care and to the lives of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their hard work and dedication make a world of difference for the individuals they support.
If you or someone you know is interested in a challenging and rewarding career as a DSP, visit our Careers page for listings.
If you need support for yourself or a family member living with I/DD or mental illness, call (866) 272-7826 to learn more about Monarch’s services.