Direct support professionals (DSPs) are people who work directly with people with physical, emotional and/or intellectual disabilities with the aim of assisting the individual to become integrated into his /her community.

A direct support professional is a person who assists an individual with a disability to lead a self-directed life and contribute to the community, assists with activities of daily living if needed, and encourages attitudes and behaviors that enhance community inclusion. A DSP may provide supports to a person with a disability at home, work, school, church, and other community places. A DSP also acts as an advocate for the disabled individual, in communicating their needs, self-expression and goals.

The direct support professional is responsible to provide direct services to the individuals including, assisting in maintaining a clean, safe living environment, supporting and/or providing their healthcare needs, preparing meals, providing supervision, training, and assisting the individuals in every aspect of their lives, while promoting their maximum level of independence and functioning.

The direct support professional is responsible to work cooperatively with the program director and other staff in developing, implementing, and evaluating the individuals care and programming needs. This position reports any program or personnel issues, including household, medical, or maintenance needs directly to the program director or lead direct support professional depending on the issue.