This course prepares students for a rewarding career as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) by grounding practice in a person-centered service model. It blends lectures, student presentations, and practical exercises to develop empathetic communication, positive behavioral support, and community inclusion. Students learn to use planning tools, such as PATH and MAPS, understand disability rights legislation, and create actionable inclusion strategies to help individuals with disabilities lead full, self-determined lives. Throughout this course, students will complete the online College of Direct Support training modules that are mandated by the state for working DSPs. Taking these modules alongside the DSP Certificate course prepares students to launch their careers as DSPs.

Topics include:

• Utilizing tools like MAPS and PATH to map out individual goals and dreams
• Transitioning from traditional medical models to strengths-based approaches and self-determination.
• Fostering social integration, relationship building, and a sense of belonging in community settings.
• Understanding civil rights laws, guardianship options, Supported Decision-Making (SDM), and safety mandates.
• Implementing Positive Behavioral Support (PBS), Functional Assessments (ABC charting), and task analysis. 

Textbooks, materials, ID card and exam fees are not included. 

Course Requirement

• 18 years of age or older and legally eligible to work in the United States
• High school diplomas or equivalent with the ability to pass the background check
• A valid New Jersey driver’s license with fewer than 5 points in moving violations
• No previous experience is required
• Access to a computer and reliable Internet for coursework 

Total Program Hours: 92.5 Hours

• DSP Certificate Course: 32.5 Hours
• College of Direct Support Training: 60 Hours 

Instructor: Karen Gutshall-Seidman [email protected] 

Classroom: Paramus, Classroom TBD

Accommodations: Call the Disability Services at 201-612-5269.

Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour training course designed to give members of the public key skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Mental Health First Aid training helps a layperson assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis. Mental Health First Aid certification, which must be renewed every three years. Topic includes;

• Recognize the potential risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health problems. 
• Use a 5-step action plan to help an individual in crisis connect with appropriate professional help.
• Interpret the prevalence of various mental health disorders in the U.S. and the need for reduced negative attitudes in their communities.
• Apply knowledge of the appropriate professional, peer, social, and self-help resources available to help someone with a mental health problem treat and manage the problem and achieve recovery.
• Assess their own views and feelings about mental health problems and disorders.

Textbooks, materials, ID card and exam fees are not included.

Prerequisites: 18 years or older with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Total Program Hours: 8 Hours

Required Course Materials: Notebook and Pen

Instructor: Stephanie Hartman [email protected]

Classroom: Technology Building, Room TEC-201 

Accommodations: Call the Disability Services at 201-612-5269.

If you are interested in this course, please email Serene at [email protected].