About DSP Chat

DSP Chat is an online community dedicated to Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It was created to amplify DSP voices, share real experiences, and provide practical tools that strengthen the profession.

Direct Support Professionals play a critical role in helping people live meaningful, self-directed lives in their communities. Yet the work is often misunderstood, undervalued, and carried out without enough opportunities for connection or recognition. DSP Chat exists to change that by creating a space where DSPs are seen, heard, and supported.

At the heart of DSP Chat are real stories from DSPs. These stories highlight the everyday realities of the job—the successes, challenges, lessons learned, and moments that make the work meaningful. By sharing lived experiences, DSP Chat helps build understanding, pride, and professional identity across the field.

DSP Chat also serves as a connection point. Through our community forum, DSPs can ask questions, exchange ideas, and support one another. Whether someone is new to the field or has years of experience, DSP Chat provides a respectful environment for conversation, learning, and peer support.

In addition, DSP Chat offers job postings, resources, and training materials designed with the realities of direct support work in mind. These tools are intended to help DSPs grow professionally, strengthen their skills, and navigate career opportunities within the field.

To further elevate DSP voices, DSP Chat features podcast interviews with Direct Support Professionals who are willing to speak openly about the real joys and challenges of the role. These conversations provide insight, validation, and inspiration—helping others feel less alone while advancing broader understanding of the profession.

DSP Chat is built on the belief that strong support systems begin with strong, supported professionals. By sharing knowledge, experiences, and opportunities, DSP Chat aims to strengthen the DSP workforce and, in turn, improve the lives of the people they support.

DSP Chat is more than a website. It is a community, a platform, and a growing conversation centered on respect, connection, and the value of direct support work.