A Direct Support Professional (DSP) in a mental and physical health group home is a frontline staff member who provides hands-on care, daily support, and advocacy for residents with complex needs. Unlike a traditional caregiver who does tasks for a person, a DSP works alongside residents to help them gain independence, build skills, and engage with their community. [1, 2, 3, 4] In a group home, DSPs act as caregivers, teachers, companions, and advocates, supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD), mental health challenges, and physical health needs. [1, 2] Core Responsibilities of a DSP DSPs in residential settings manage various tasks to ensure safety and quality of life: [1, 2, 3, 4] - Daily Living Support (ADLs): Assisting with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. - Physical Health Care: Administering medications (if certified), monitoring chronic conditions, checking vitals, and assisting with mobility. - Mental Health Support: Implementing behavioral support plans, providing emotional support, and helping residents work through challenging moments. - Household Management: Cooking meals based on dietary needs, cleaning, and doing laundry. - Community Integration: Transporting residents to appointments, shopping for groceries, and facilitating social activities like going to movies or parks. - Documentation: Keeping logs of daily progress, behaviors, and medical events. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]