Providing critical support: Devereux honors DSPs during appreciation week in September

Whether they are helping youth and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences develop essential life skills, secure meaningful employment or achieve greater independence, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health’s direct support professionals (DSPs) play a critical role in the overall health and well-being of those in their care.

In celebration of Direct Support Professional Recognition Week – Sept. 12-18 – Devereux is paying tribute to its more than 3,200 DSPs for making a positive difference in the lives of the individuals they serve – every day.

“Our DSPs are much more than caregivers – they are teachers and therapists, role models and advocates,” said Devereux Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rhea Fernandes, Psy.D. “These committed, compassionate and courageous individuals are the heart and soul of our organization, providing exemplary service and outstanding support as they help our children, adolescents and adults lead more fulfilling lives.”

Helping youth, adults thrive

Devereux’s DSPs have a passion for helping those in need. Look below to find out what just a few of them love most about their jobs.

“Being a positive influence, and seeing the difference we make in the lives of the kids we serve is the most rewarding part of my work at Devereux.”
– Devereux Arizona Program Coordinator Cody Ellis

“I am willing to go above and beyond to ensure the safety of the individuals we serve. I enjoy assisting staff with implementing procedures and guiding them to be successful. I enjoy the job, and look forward to coming to work daily. Being able to make a difference means a whole lot to me.”
– Devereux Florida Lead Direct Care Staff O’Conner Green

“I enjoy seeing the development of each individual at their own pace under the tools of individual treatment. There are many members to a treatment team, each providing input and support. As a direct care professional, we see firsthand the changes that develop from the efforts of the team.”
– Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island DSP Robert Flanagan

“I’ve had several rewarding moments at Devereux. The best is when my individuals learn new concepts and are able to apply them on their own. As a DSP, teaching them how to apply basic daily living skills and learning how to cook is so gratifying. The small accomplishments mean so much to them.”
– Devereux Pennsylvania CIDDS DSP Kaye Hinds

Make a difference: Join our team!

Want to help improve the lives of individuals with special needs? Devereux is hiring direct support professionals who are committed to empowering others to achieve their full and unique potential. Visit jobs.devereux.org to explore our career opportunities today.

Latest News

		Community supporters make holiday season special for Devereux Pennsylvania youth The holidays are over, but the memories remain of a special season filled with joy and gratitude for youth served by Devereux Pennsylvania. Through Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services’ “Operation Santa” program, community supporters, as well as center staff and their families, donated hundreds of toys to help fulfill the holiday wish lists - and more - of approximately 300 children and adolescents living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.
		Devereux article on engaging families in behavioral health treatment featured in Behavioral Health News An article written by Devereux National Director of Behavioral Health Services Crystal Taylor-Dietz, Psy.D., and Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, was recently featured in Behavioral Health News. The article - “The integral role of families in promoting mental health and managing mental illness” - discusses the importance of family engagement in behavioral health treatment.
		Adults share personal experiences on services through Devereux New Jersey’s Advisory Board Adults who receive services through Devereux New Jersey - who also sit on the center’s Advisory Board for individuals served - have an opportunity to make their voices heard and share their personal experiences on the services they receive.
		Autism Spectrum News features Devereux article on supporting individuals with disabilities in becoming self-advocates An article written by Devereux team members on supporting teens and adults with disabilities in becoming self-advocates was recently featured in Autism Spectrum News. The article includes interviews with three individuals who are enrolled in Devereux Pennsylvania’s Community Adult Autism Partnership Program as they offer tips on how to ensure your voice is heard.
		Devereux New Jersey Direct Support Professional/Lead Staff Nacole Moore Devereux New Jersey Direct Support Professional/Lead Staff Nacole Moore leads by example and is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand. Learn how she is inspiring all those around her.
		Celebrating Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes: Spotlight on Devereux Arizona Nursing Manager Tammy Maguire At Devereux, our employees are at the heart of everything we do - and are key to our success. Learn how Devereux Arizona Nursing Manager Tammy Maguire is serving and inspiring others every day.
		Devereux article on advocating for those who are nonspeaking or minimally verbal featured in Autism Spectrum News Read this Autism Spectrum News article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers suggestions on how to advocate for those who are nonspeaking or limited in their verbal communication.
		Planting seeds of learning: Devereux California’s greenhouse program helps adults grow job, life skills Adults who participate in Devereux California’s greenhouse vocational program are gaining more than a green thumb, they are cultivating critical job and life skills to help them increase their independence and enhance their overall quality of life.
		Devereux video: President and CEO Carl E. Clark II chats with senior leadership team members about Praesidium accreditation In this Devereux video, President and CEO Carl E. Clark II speaks with Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Rhea Fernandes, Psy.D., and Senior Vice President and Chief Safety and Risk Officer Kelsey Lawson, JD, about Devereux’s efforts to pursue accreditation with Praesidium, a global leader in abuse risk management.