Direct care professionals are the cornerstone of effective treatment. Whether Clinical Assistants, Behavioral Technicians, Direct Support Professionals (DSP), or Direct Care Staff (DCS), these individuals are responsible for the day-to-day operations and the well-being of clients in a residential treatment program. While many programs offer clients the support of individuals in this role, Stonewater is proud to have an unwavering commitment to excellence in this area.

From the top of the org chart to the bottom, the level of dedication among our team is unmistakable. An environment of encouragement and accountability fosters high performers, setting a clear standard of going above and beyond — and being recognized for it. We bring that same atmosphere of respect, dignity, and accountability to our clients, continually challenging them to grow beyond their comfort zones and embrace lives of purpose. For examples of how to do that, they need not look any further than the staff members who surround them.

Indeed, the DCS team plays a critical role in modeling the healthy behaviors that we try to impart to our adolescent residents. DCS team members spend the most time with residents, guiding them through every aspect of treatment during meals, group activities, or recreation. A strong, cohesive DCS team ensures that the foundation of recovery remains firm, providing residents with the best possible environment for healing.

The responsibility can be a heavy one for some. Burnout and turnover in the field of direct care is a well-documented challenge, particularly in organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. According to research, DSP turnover rates in some states have averaged nearly 50% annually (National Core Indicators, 2019). This level of turnover poses significant challenges in maintaining consistency and quality of care for residents, as training new staff to meet high standards is both demanding and continuous. 

At Stonewater, however, these challenges are met head-on. The organization has implemented extensive measures to prevent burnout and reduce turnover, including mandatory quarterly self-care days and a flexible scheduling model. This allows direct care staff to work five days one week and two days the next, enabling them to enjoy time off without depleting their paid time off (PTO) and contributing to better work-life balance. In addition, we grow together in DBT consult groups, and celebrate our wins at team building events and holiday parties.

Residential care is not for everyone. It requires a unique kind of resilience — and a deep commitment to quality care. Direct care staff must manage their emotions, tone, and reactions with skill and empathy at all times, even in the most challenging situations. The ability to think on one’s feet is essential, especially for weekend shifts, when the demands are often at their peak. Yet, the rewards are priceless. Perhaps more than anyone else, members of the direct care team see firsthand how the adolescents in our care transform over time, finding lives of meaning, purpose, and joy.

With a commitment to support both staff members and residents, Stonewater ensures that its direct care professionals are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the role, providing a strong foundation for the transformative work of recovery.