Mental Health - Direct Support Professional

As a Direct Support Professional at Keystone Mental Health Services, your primary responsibilities include providing quality support to adults with mental illness in a residential or apartment setting. You’ll assist these individuals in becoming more independent by helping them with personal care, medication management, daily documentation, and household tasks. Additionally, planning recreational activities and ensuring clients engage with their community is also a vital part of the role.

To qualify as a Direct Support Professional at Keystone Mental Health Services, you need a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, effective communication skills, computer proficiency, a valid driver’s license, and a vehicle are required. A minimum age of 21 is necessary for specific programs. While experience in human services or mental health is preferred, it isn’t mandatory.

At Keystone Mental Health Services, Direct Support Professionals earn a competitive salary of $19.00 per hour. Additionally, the organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, extensive training opportunities, generous paid time off, and tuition reimbursement based on eligibility. This holistic approach aims to support your well-being and professional growth.

When you join Keystone Mental Health Services as a Direct Support Professional, you can expect extensive training tailored to your role. This training will cover essential topics necessary for supporting individuals with mental health challenges effectively and ensuring you are well-prepared for various situations. Keystone values continuous learning and development, offering numerous opportunities for career advancement.

While previous experience in the human services or mental health field is preferred for the Direct Support Professional position at Keystone Mental Health Services, it is not a strict requirement. The organization is dedicated to training new hires and equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their roles.

When answering this question, emphasize your passion for mental health and helping others. Share personal experiences or values that drive your desire to make a positive impact on individuals' lives, expressing enthusiasm for the mission of Keystone Mental Health Services.

In your response, demonstrate empathy and problem-solving skills. Describe a hypothetical scenario and outline steps you would take to de-escalate the situation while ensuring the safety and well-being of both the client and yourself.

Discuss the importance of empowerment and individualized support. Mention techniques such as goal-setting, positive reinforcement, and providing opportunities for clients to make choices and engage in their treatment plans to foster a sense of autonomy.

Share a specific example highlighting your collaboration skills, emphasizing the value of teamwork in the mental health field. Discuss how effective communication and shared goals can lead to better outcomes for clients.

Express your commitment to professional development by mentioning any relevant courses, certifications, or resources you follow. Highlight the importance of continuous learning in providing the best support as a Direct Support Professional.

Discuss the significance of accurate documentation in tracking client progress, facilitating communication among team members, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Emphasize your attention to detail and organizational skills.

Demonstrate your ability to approach the situation with patience and understanding. Discuss strategies to engage the client, assess their needs, and work collaboratively to find a resolution that respects their autonomy while ensuring their safety.

Highlight qualities such as empathy, patience, adaptability, and strong communication skills. Discuss how these attributes contribute to building trust and rapport with clients, ultimately making a positive impact in their lives.

Share your thought process for creating an inclusive, enjoyable activity that aligns with clients' interests and abilities. Discuss the importance of community involvement and how recreational activities promote mental health and social skills.

Identify a common challenge, such as staff turnover or burnout, and discuss potential solutions like promoting a supportive work environment and prioritizing self-care. Highlight your proactive approach and willingness to contribute positively to the team's culture.