Direct Support Professional 1 & 2 Microcredentials

Education

• HDFS 1200 - Introduction to Human Services (3-credits)
  This course introduces the field of human services, exploring theoretical systems for understanding human behavior, while examining the foundation of the client/practitioner relationship. An overview of professional development and skills-based techniques for effective professional relationships are explored including diagnostic criteria and assessment tools, with an overview of the field of addictions. An emphasis on cultural competence, personal bias and practitioner wellness is highlighted. Students complete NY State Certification as a mandated reporter.
• HDFS 1225 Professional and Agency Documentation and Writing: DSP 1 (1 credit)

  This course introduces students to the skills of professional writing in human services agencies including case notes, referrals, business letters, and professional e-mails. It is a required experience for students taking the Direct Support Professional (DSP) Level 1 micro-credential. Pre- or Co-requisite HDFS 1200. Only open to students pursuing DSP micro-credentials.

  This course can be taken at the same time as HDFS 1200 or later.​​​​

Self-Reflection Narratives to Earn 11 badges. Badges are in the four competency areas of:

• Crisis Intervention and Prevention (Badges = Self Reflection, Crisis Documentation, Crisis Intervention)
• Safety (Badges = Abuse Prevention and Abuse Reporting)
• Person-centered practices (Badges = Completing Documentation, Individual Activities, Managing Documentation)
• Health and Wellness (Badges = Ongoing Health Supports, Supporting Well-being)
• Code of Ethics Commitment badge

Education

• HDFS 2560 – Case Management (3 credits)
  This course focuses on human service ethics, the case management process, and service provision for special populations. Using a systems and ecological perspective, students develop basic knowledge of the case management process including assessing client needs, evaluating potential referral resources with clients, and ongoing service coordination throughout the continuum of care. Ethical decision making, professional competence, self-disclosure, confidentiality, and related topics are covered as they apply to the process of ethical decision-making and conduct. Self-reflection and analysis are explored with an examination of the student's personal values and belief system as it relates to becoming an ethical and competent practitioner. Introduction to culturally and age-appropriate training and prevention is examined.
• HDFS 3200 – Helping Skills in Human Services (3 credits)
  This course focuses on acquiring fundamental knowledge and developing concrete helping skills to work with individuals and families in various human service agencies. The course emphasizes building working relationships and developing foundational interpersonal and active listening skills using a strengths-based model of individual and family assessment.
• HDFS 1250 – Cultural Competency in Service Provision: DSP 2 (1 credit)
  This course explores culturally sensitive practice in human services and counselling. It is a required experience for students taking the DSP level 2 micro-credential. Topics include cultural variations in values and communication patterns, microaggressions, sociohistorical privilege and oppression, as well as multicultural helping with specific groups.

Self-Reflection Narratives to Earn 13 badges. Badges are in the six competency areas of:

• Evaluation and Observation (Badges = Assessment Follow-Up, Data Collection, Informal Assessment)
• Communication (Badges = Communication Modes, Respectful Communication, Translating Terms)
• Professionalism and Ethics (Badges = Ethics Roadmap, Respecting Confidentiality)
• Community Inclusion & Networking (Badges = Planning Activities, Community Networking)
• Community Living Skills & Supports (Badges = Building Strengths)
• Cultural Competency (Badges = Cultural Reflection, Cultural Support)