Olivia’s Experiences With The NADSP E-Badge Academy

The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) recently asked Olivia about her experiences with the NADSP E-Badge Academy. The questions covered how she carries out her work, the skillsets she demonstrates on a daily basis, the impact that the E-Badge Academy has had on their professional recognition, and how they get credit for competency.

Describe the story you shared in carrying out that competency:

The story I shared was when I assisted an individual questioning his sexuality by helping him explore his feelings and connecting him to an LGBTQIA+ support group. I worked with him to ensured he had resources, privacy, and a comfortable space to form relationships while respecting his pace and comfort levels.

Why is this competency so important to DSPs?

This competency is so important to DSPs because it’s their job to support individuals when navigating personal and social challenges, while continuing to promote inclusivity, respect, and informed and educated decision making in a comfortable and safe environment.

Have you used this competency in your work?

I used this competency in my work by using prior training to guide someone through their journey of self-discovery, connecting them to a supportive and educational community. I honored their wishes while respecting their privacy.

How can other DSPs replicate your practices?

Other individuals can replicate my approach by creating a safe and open environment for the individuals we support to express their feelings. By actively listening, we can increase the rapport we have with those we support and offer appropriate resources by guiding them towards supportive communities that can serve as educational resources. It’s also important to respect the individual’s pace and privacy, ensuring that any shared information is kept confidential until they are ready for it to be shared. By connecting people to groups where they feel they can form meaningful relationships and support, we can help others feel empowered to explore their identity in a nurturing space

How does the NADSP E-Badge Academy benefit your agency?

This program benefits my agency by ensuring our staff are well-trained in best practices, leading to higher quality support and better outcomes for the individuals we serve. Our specific program in New York helps those who haven’t had the ability to do so, earn free college credit and jumpstart their educational careers.

How does NADSP E-Badge Academy benefit the people you support?

This program benefits people supported by improving the quality of care they receive. It ensures staff are knowledgeable about best practices, and provide a more inclusive and understanding environment.

What does the future hold for your involvement in the NADSP E-Badge Academy?

I am currently in DSP 3 and I plan to continue growing my skills through the end of the program. This has helped me deepen my expertise to better serve those I support and create the most current trainings on best practices.

How has NADSP E-Badge Academy affected your professional image?

The NADSP E-Badge Academy has increased my professional image, providing me with credentials and recognition that affirm my commitment to delivering high-quality, ethical support and training.

I feel more skilled as the Academy has helped refine my competencies in certain areas, reflect on how I could’ve approached situations differently and provided me with a more person-centered thinking approach in my day to day work.

The NADSP E-Badge Academy offers a structured way to earn badges for demonstrated competency. This not only validates the skills I have, but also provides immense self reflection I may not have otherwise engaged in.

Well Wishes from FREE

This award is a well-deserved recognition of the hard work and dedication that Olivia brings to work every day. Olivia is a natural leader and acts as a mentor to her colleague that are beginning their journey with the NADSP. Olivia consistently goes above and beyond in supporting others, and her achievements have a positive impact across our organization. Congratulations to Olivia on this momentous achievement!

-Matthew Collins, Chief Quality and Compliance Officer

NADSP E-Badge Academy Earners Of The Month