Information for TWC Counselors
Program Description
The Postsecondary Access and Training in Human Services (PATHS) program prepares individuals for a job as a Direct Support Professional-General (DSP-G), Direct Support Professional-Paraprofessional (DSP-P) or Child Care Professional (CCP). After completing two semesters at the Center on Disability and Development, PATHS graduates will be ready for immediate employment in:
- Child care (children aged 0-5)
- School districts
- Community service for people with disabilities or older people
Our graduates will be able to provide the following services:
- Assist a person with mobility needs to complete everyday tasks
- Support a person in becoming active in their community
- Assist a person in developing independent living skills
- Support more than one person with disabilities in a community home
Coursework
The first semester consists of coursework providing both core competency and enrichment classes to students to prepare them for work as DSP-Gs, DSP-Ps, or CCPs in their community:
- The role of a direct support professional or child care professional
- CPR and first aid
- Identifying, reporting and avoiding abuse, neglect/exploitation
- Confidentiality
- History of disability
- Self-determination/disability rights
- Basic computer skills
- Assistive Technology (AT)
- Person-Centered Thinking and Planning
- Community inclusion
- Supportive and respectful communication
- Supporting friendships and relationships
- Positive Behavior Supports
Students who successfully complete the first semester will meet the minimum requirements to be employed by a community provider. The second semester is a 135+ hour practicum that will offer hands-on training in a community setting. Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills they learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. Upon successful completion of their practicum, graduates will have access to additional job placement supports through a provider referral network.