United Counseling Service of Bennington County Inc→
Direct Support Professional - Specialized… at United… · Bennington
Job Description
Direct Support Professional: Specialized Services
Schedule: On Call/As Needed: Will be contacted when there is a call out or scheduled in advance for schedule gaps. This is a per diem position.
Objective / Purpose: Under the direction of the Program Coordinator, the Specialized Services Provider delivers individualized supports to a person with an intellectual disability or autism spectrum disorder living in the community. This position is part of a 24/7 support team for a high-needs individual residing in one of the following settings:
- Battelle Crisis Stabilization House
- An independent apartment
- A hotel or motel
- An Airbnb residence
Major Responsibilities
1. Direct Service
- Provide services in a respectful, friendly, and professional manner that supports client choice.
- Facilitate conversations and activities that match the individual’s interests.
- Offer guidance, companionship, emotional support, and supervision to ensure safety.
- Follow all Specialized Services regulations as outlined by Medicaid.
- Implement the individual’s treatment plan to deliver meaningful, specific supports.
Community & Daily Living Support
- Advocate on behalf of the individual with family, peers, and community members when needed.
- Introduce and connect the individual to community resources.
- Support participation in community events and activities.
- Teach and model safety skills for both home and community settings.
- Teach and model appropriate social and community behavior.
Health & Wellness Support
- Monitor emotional and physical well-being.
- Administer medications as appropriate.
- Assist with personal care as needed.
- Attend medical appointments and ensure follow-up is completed.
- Provide transportation to activities, appointments, and community events.
- Collaborate with clinical staff to support mental health needs.
Safety & Compliance
- Develop and follow safety plans for community outings.
- Understand Vermont public safety best practices.
- Support the individual in adhering to court conditions of release and/or Act 248 orders, when applicable.
2. Record Keeping
- Collect required data according to the individual’s ISA and behavior support plans.
- Complete all necessary Developmental Services and agency documentation, including:
- Accurate daily and weekly timesheets
- Expense sheets
- Monthly documentation
- Submit all paperwork in a timely manner.
3. Networking / Team Collaboration
- Share relevant information with staff, professionals, and team members in a confidential and professional manner.
- Serve as an advocate and/or liaison for the individual, Developmental Services Division, and UCS.
- Participate actively in team meetings, care plan discussions, and other collaborative meetings as a problem-solver.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Required:
- High School Diploma or equivalent
Preferred:
- Direct Service experience preferred
- Experience with individuals with intellectual disabilities preferred
Skills
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Outlook for internal e-mail communication
Licenses/Certifications & Other
- Valid Driver’s License
- Reliable transportation to transport clients on occasion