TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey Human Services is taking steps to improve the quality of care provided to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who also have co-occurring mental health needs. The department has issued a request for proposals inviting provider agencies to have their Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) obtain certification through the National Association of the Dually Diagnosed (NADD) Competency-Based IDD/MI Dual Diagnosis Direct Support Professional Certification program.
Direct Support Professionals play a crucial role in helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities achieve their personal goals and live more independently. The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) in New Jersey coordinates services for approximately 26,500 adults with such disabilities, with at least 3,500 of them also having a co-occurring psychiatric diagnosis, according to 2023 DDD statistics.
“Direct Support Professionals provide vitally important support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities so they may live full and healthy lives in their communities,” said Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman. “Governor Murphy’s Administration has invested significantly in this workforce by continually increasing wages to reflect the value and importance of their work, in turn improving recruitment and retention in the field.”
The new initiative is designed to ensure that DSPs are not only well-compensated but also equipped with the highest level of training to support individuals with complex needs. The NADD certification is expected to enhance the skills of DSPs, offering a higher standard of care and providing reassurance to both provider agencies and the families they serve.
“This opportunity is another important investment in this workforce,” Commissioner Adelman added. “Becoming NADD Certified will be a source of pride for DSPs and a source of comfort and confidence for provider agencies and families.”
This initiative marks another step in New Jersey’s ongoing efforts to improve services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, reinforcing the state’s commitment to supporting this vulnerable population.