Sonji Phillips

How foundational skills in communication, safety, and empathy shape confident, consistent, and person-centered DSPs Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the backbone of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). They are mentors, advocates, caregivers, teachers, supporters, and in many cases, a source of emotional stability for the people they serve. But the responsibility of being a DSP is often underestimated. The role is complex—requiring a balance...

Caring for a person with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) is one of the most meaningful roles a person can take on. Whether you are a parent, sibling, guardian, or Direct Support Professional (DSP), caregiving becomes a relationship built on patience, understanding, and commitment. But it is also a role that often comes with challenges—challenges that many people are expected to navigate without clear instruction, consistent training, or emotional support. Families frequently...

How a new guidebook is transforming confidence, consistency, and person-centered care for Direct Support Professionals Across the country, the role of a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is becoming more essential—and more demanding—than ever. DSPs stand at the heart of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), providing support that requires skill, emotional intelligence, consistency, and patience. Yet despite the importance of this work, DSPs have...