Paid Caregivers typically care for someone who is elderly and/or has a physical disability; whereas, DSPs support people who have Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). 

There is no previous experience or education required to be a DSP at most agencies. Some agencies do require a high school diploma or GED. Additionally, a criminal background check will be conducted. Basic English skills are required in most roles. After being hired by an agency, DSPs are required to take online training courses on a web-based platform, Relias. This training is paid for by the provider. Most agencies provide additional training specific to the agency and the client as well.

You can find a role as a DSP or Paid Caregiver by searching on Indeed or looking at provider agencies' websites for job postings. You can also be a DSP through Consumer Direction and join their DSP registry.

The pay for a DSP in Tennessee is around $15/hour or higher. Schedules can vary depending on client needs. This is one of the benefits of the DSP role, as schedules can often be flexible.