Children's Respite Caregiver and Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Access Services is seeking Children's Respite Caregiver and Direct Support Professional (DSP) to work with children & youth as part of our Children’s Mental Health Respite team in many locations across Montgomery County.  

As a Children’s Respite Caregiver and Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will provide relief to caregivers by offering hourly respite for the client in their home or in the community. Qualifying respite clients have a mental health or behavioral health diagnosis. Families who apply to this program may lack the natural support to be able to accomplish tasks, practice self-care and take the time to recharge. The program allows caregivers to leave the home and have personal time to take a break while their child is in the safe hands of a children’s respite caregiver.  You will support the client by doing a variety of tasks and activities either in their home or out in the community. 

This is a great opportunity for any candidate who is looking to gain experience providing direct care in the children and young adult mental health field. This role is an excellent opportunity for high school graduates, college students currently in school, or someone who has been in the human services field for a few years. At Access, you will work alongside staff who truly care about each other and the people they serve.  

Work Schedule: 

• Each respite client is authorized up to 12 hours a month – DSP must be willing to work with a minimum of 2 clients for a minimum total of 24 hours a month  
• Must be available a minimum of 3 evenings a week and 2 weekends a month

• Part-time, flexible hours available 

• Must be available during the evening and on the weekend  

• DSPs can work with each assigned client’s family to build a schedule that works with their and the family’s availability 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Work respite shifts with the highest degree of dependability 

• Maintain a cooperative and caring attitude. 

• Ensure the highest quality of care for individuals in helping them meet their needs. 

• Ensure own proper conduct and fair representation of Access Services. 

• Report any operational or staff concerns according to Access Services’ established policies and procedures. 

• Maintain daily log after respite session 

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and proof of adequate car insurance 

• High school diploma or GED required. 

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, education, criminal justice or another related human services field (preferred). 

• Two (2) or more years direct care experience with children or adolescents or case management or counseling experience (preferred). 

• Ability to travel to and work in a variety of settings including client’s home, school and community. 

• Physical ability to perform, or the ability to learn and be trained in: 

• CPR, first aid, fire safety, the delivery of therapeutic options or safe crisis management techniques and other trainings and/or tasks as required. 

• Proficient in, or able to learn and use technology and digital platforms to be used on the job 

Benefits

Compensation: 

• $18-$22/hourly, with adjustments made based on education and relevant work experience. 

Benefits: 

• All part-time employees receive the following benefits: 20 hours/week or more include:  

• Paid Time Off, Tuition reimbursement, 401k program. 

Access Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.