DSP Essentials
Do-It-Yourself Training for Impactful Support
Welcome to the DSP Essentials! We’re thrilled to have you join this series of eight modules, tailored to equip you, Direct
Support Professionals (DSPs), with an exciting, flexible program that will enhance your skills and introduce resources
to deliver meaningful person-centered support.
Throughout the courses, you’ll engage in interactive, self-paced videos, hands-on exercises, and practical tools you can
apply immediately. You’ll have the chance to work through guided sessions while practicing alongside someone you
support.
Collaborative learning will encourage you and those you serve to learn and grow together, applying person-centered
approaches to achieve more meaningful, effective support.
Why DSP Essentials:Do-It-Yourself Training for Impactful Support?
- Engaging, self-paced trainings designed to empower you with the skills and resources to use immediately
- Time effecient and convenient
- Can be done at work with people you support
- Side-by-side learning and growing together
- Receive up to $500 in gift cards or by check!
Your Courses
Building Bridges: Promoting Integration in Everyday Support
Supporting Decision-Making: Tools for Everyday Empowerment
Empowering Opportunities: Strategies for Meaningful Support
Respecting Rights: Foundations for Dignity in Support
What's included when you participate in DSP Essentials?
- Four one-hour interactive and educational videos for Direct Support Professionals, each worth $100 in stipends.
- Four interactive, self-guided "Side-by-Side" videos to watch alongside the people you support, puting your learning immediately into action. Each worth $100 in stipends.
- Practical, easy-to-use resources to better understand and deliver personalized support.
- Toolkits for Direct Support Professionals.
- Top Tips for Direct Support Professionals.
- Conversational Guides and activity packets to use with the people you support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to participate?
To participate and receive a stipend you will need your organizations vendor number (eligible organizations participated in the 2024 HCBS monitoring review). You will also need an email address (ideally this is a personal email only you have access to as Stipend information will be shared to this email).
Who is eligible to receive a stipend for taking these courses?
To be eligible for the training stipend, DSPs, must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Work as a paid DSP for an average of 10 hours or more per week
- Perform direct support tasks like skills development, guidance, and personal assistance to individuals served by ELARC as a regular part of their job duties
- Spend at least 50% of work hours doing direct support tasks
- Are employed by an ELARC vendor who participated in the 2024 HCBS monitoring review.
How much money do I earn for each course?
How long is each DSP course?
Each course one hour or less, including video, learning, and skill practice.
Will there be a test?
Do I earn a Certificate of Completion?
Yes, you will automatically receive a certificate of completion for each course. These are available for download in your account.
