Professional Development Course
Life Skills Development and Coaching
A practical, person-centered course for Direct Support Professionals and case managers who are ready to move beyond simply helping โ and start coaching individuals toward lasting independence.
๐ 4 Modules ๐ Self-Paced ๐ Professional Development / CEAbout This Course
Life skills are the everyday abilities that allow individuals to care for themselves, manage their finances, build relationships, and participate fully in their communities. For many people receiving behavioral health and human services support, these skills were never taught, were disrupted by trauma or illness, or were consistently performed by others on their behalf โ creating cycles of dependence that this course is designed to help you break.
This course is built for Direct Support Professionals, case managers, social workers, and anyone who works alongside individuals in supported living, transitional programs, or community-based services. It goes beyond a basic skills checklist to explore the how of coaching โ the mindset, strategies, and relationship practices that produce real, lasting change in the people you serve. Whether you are new to life skills work or looking to sharpen your approach, this course will give you practical tools you can use immediately.
No prior training in life skills coaching is required. The course is written in clear, direct language and grounded in real-world practice. Every concept is illustrated with examples drawn from the kinds of situations you are likely to encounter every day.
Course Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you will be able to:
| โDefine life skills and identify the major categories relevant to individuals in supported living | โDistinguish between doing tasks for someone, teaching a skill, and coaching toward independence |
| โApply task analysis and graduated prompting to support daily living and financial skill development | โRecognize financial vulnerability and respond appropriately, including mandatory reporting obligations |
| โCoach individuals in assertive communication, self-advocacy, and constructive conflict resolution | โSupport community navigation and genuine community inclusion โ not just physical access |
| โFacilitate person-centered goal-setting conversations and write SMART goals collaboratively | โUse progress documentation to inform coaching decisions and support the transition toward independence |
Who This Course Is For
This course is designed for professionals in behavioral health, human services, and community support roles โ including but not limited to:
| ๐ค Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) Working in supported living, group homes, day programs, or community-based settings alongside individuals with intellectual, developmental, or behavioral health challenges. | ๐ Case Managers & Social Workers Supporting individuals in developing and executing service plans that include life skills goals and transition planning. |
| ๐ Residential Support Staff Working in transitional housing, recovery housing, or supported apartment programs where daily life skill development is a core part of the service. | ๐ฑ Anyone in a Coaching or Mentoring Role Individuals in peer support, workforce development, or mentoring roles who want a structured framework for supporting others toward greater independence. |
