Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Mental Health & Behavioral Support

Lasting Impressions • Sedalia, MO

15d

About The Position

Lasting Impressions MO LLC is seeking a compassionate, emotionally mature, and dependable Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join its residential services team. The role supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including people with mental health challenges, behavioral support needs, and complex life circumstances. DSPs work directly with individuals in their homes and communities to encourage independence, develop coping skills, navigate challenging situations, and pursue personal goals. The approach emphasizes meaningful relationships, dignity, personal choice, teaching, and support rather than control or restriction.

The position is particularly suited to candidates with experience in mental health, behavioral health, psychiatric care, crisis intervention, trauma-informed support, or related services. Formal mental health credentials are not required, though related experience is strongly preferred.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and supportive during stressful situations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to learn and implement person-centered behavioral support strategies.
• Ability to complete required training and documentation.
• Ability to meet applicable background screening and employment requirements.
• Dependability, emotional maturity, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others.

Nice To Haves

• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
• Experience in behavioral health or psychiatric facilities, inpatient or outpatient mental health services, crisis stabilization or intervention programs, residential treatment facilities, substance use recovery programs, community mental health services, developmental disability services, youth behavioral programs, or trauma-informed residential care.
• Relevant experience as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT), Mental Health Technician (MHT), Psychiatric Technician, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Behavioral Interventionist, Residential Counselor, Recovery Support Specialist, or Direct Support Professional (DSP).
• Experience with Tools of Choice Training (TOC), Positive Behavior Supports Curriculum, or MANDT Relational Training.
• Related mental health or behavioral support experience is strongly preferred; formal mental health credentials are not required.

Responsibilities

• Provide compassionate, trauma-informed support to individuals experiencing mental health or behavioral challenges.
• Recognize early signs of emotional distress and use appropriate de-escalation strategies.
• Build positive, trusting relationships through consistent and respectful interactions.
• Support individuals in developing emotional regulation, communication, and healthy coping skills.
• Implement individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSPs), safety plans, and support strategies.
• Use positive behavioral approaches that emphasize dignity, personal choice, and independence.
• Observe, document, and communicate changes in emotional well-being or behavioral patterns.
• Collaborate with supervisors, behavioral professionals, and clinical team members to provide consistent support.
• Assist with activities of daily living, including hygiene, meal preparation, housekeeping, and personal care as needed.
• Encourage personal responsibility, decision-making, and skill development.
• Support community participation, meaningful relationships, recreation, and personal interests.
• Assist individuals in maintaining routines that promote stability and overall well-being.
• Provide medication assistance according to applicable training, certification, and agency procedures.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services, progress, incidents, and significant observations.
• Follow individualized support plans and established agency procedures.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and clinical professionals.
• Participate in required training, team meetings, and ongoing professional development.
• Maintain professional boundaries, confidentiality, and ethical standards.

Benefits

• $500 sign-on bonus, paid as $100 after 30 days, $200 after 90 days, and $200 after 6 months.
• Up to $1,000 in additional training bonuses: $500 upon completing Relias Level 2 (100 hours) and $500 upon completing Relias Level 3 (158 hours/program completion).
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance may be available.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Paid time off.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid professional training and development.
• Career growth and leadership opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED