Direct Support Professionals are Changing Lives

PATHS is a multi-level training program for people who support individuals with developmental disabilities.  The opportunity to earn a professional credential is available throughout Ohio.

PATHS participants are drawn from three sources: (1) workers currently employed by public- or private-sector agencies, (2) independent providers employed by families and people with disabilities; and (3) individuals who are interested in launching a career as a Direct Support Professional.

Presently, PATHS classes are being offered throughout Ohio through eight PATHS regional councils as well as through organizations who have become Licensed PATHS Training Entities.  A PATHS credential opens the door to new job opportunities and a long-term fulfilling career. PATHS graduates consistently demonstrate their ability to provide high-quality supports to people in order to help them achieve self-directed lives. For this reason, PATHS graduates are highly valued in the workforce.

PATHS classes are offered throughout eight Ohio regions

PATHS means better support for Ohioans with developmental disabilities. 

 PATHS' mission is clear: to create a competency-based and credentialed career path for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).

PATHS' vision is a future in which Ohio has a stable and sufficient pool of highly skilled professionals who are willing and able to support people with     intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

PATHS is grounded in the principles of self-direction and self-determination — and a belief that all Ohioans with disabilities should have access to high-quality, community-based supports that are provided by skilled professionals who are committed to their physical, social and emotional well-being and personal security.

About PATHS

The PATHS program offers sequential credentials that teach, reinforce, and build upon the essential skills of a highly qualified Direct Support Professional.

Training in Ohio

Training offered by PATHS ia specifically designed for anyone who works directly with individuals with developmental disabilities. Many levels and types of training opportunities are offered throughout the state of Ohio.

Regional Programs

PATHS classes are offered in eight regions of the state. All courses are designed to connect the classroom to the workplace to ensure that learning is not limited to walled-in, classroom-centered experiences.

OADSP

The Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (OADSP) launched the PATHS Program in 2000. OADSP is a coalition of individuals and organizations committed to recruiting, training and retaining people to support people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

Licensed Training Entities

By becoming a PATHS Licensed Entity, organizations can provide their staff with a nationally recognized education and training program that prepares their staff to provide the highest quality services possible.

Contact Us

For additional information about the Paths Program.

Members Only

Additional resources and supports for Licensed Entities and Paths Regional Programs.

Funding & Giving

PATHS receives funds from a variety of resources. The majority of revenue has come from the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Services and the Cuyahoga County and Hamilton County Boards of Developmental Disabilities Services.