Why Direct Support Is a Career—Not Just a Job

Why Direct Support Is a Career—Not Just a Job

Direct support is often misunderstood as “entry-level” work. In reality, it requires complex skills, judgment, and emotional intelligence.

DSPs support health, safety, rights, and quality of life. They manage medications, documentation, behavioral supports, and relationships with families and teams.

Seeing direct support as a career reinforces professionalism, pride, and advocacy. It also helps push systems toward better wages, training, and respect.

This work matters—and so do the people who do it.