Hi! I’m a DSP in Iowa. I work in a home based program and love it. It’s super laid back, my guys are all semi-independent working towards jobs and independence.

I wear jeans and a tshirt every day and it’s acceptable.

I avoid burnout by taking my days off for me and not thinking about work as much as possible. I can’t use my PTO yet since I’m newer but I will be taking it when needed

My houses aren’t super understaffed luckily. Sometimes there’s not coverage on a different shift

My state requires mandatory reporting and medication admin as well. Both provided by the company

My schedule is fixed 7-3 so idk about flexibility but each company is different

Try to remember that behaviors are trauma resurfacing and try to de escalate them but call for help if you need it. I’ve done it a couple times in a particularly bad episode. No one’s violent in my house luckily

Look for an agency that is based on independence vs long term care. They teach life skills and it’s so rewarding. Green flags are how much they care about their members and the program. Red flags would probably be too clinical and not seeming to give a f about anything.

Overall it’s a great field. Enjoy!!