WELCOME TO DEVELOPMENTAL CARE SUPPORT SERVICES (DCSS)
Developmental Care Support Services proudly stands as a beacon of possibility for individuals with developmental challenges and their families. Nestled at 38 Oakland Terrace in the heart of Newark, New Jersey, our organization was founded on an unshakable conviction: that every human being, regardless of ability, possesses an innate potential for growth, happiness, and purpose. From the moment you step through our doors—whether physically or virtually—you are embraced by a culture of radical empathy, relentless optimism, and practical, one‑on‑one guidance. We weave decades of professional expertise with genuine compassion, transforming everyday interactions into life‑altering moments of discovery and empowerment. At DCSS we do not simply support; we champion each person’s journey, fostering inclusive pathways that illuminate strengths, elevate voices, and celebrate the extraordinary richness of human diversity.
Developmental Care Support Services (DCSS) is more than an organization—it is a movement dedicated to championing the lives of individuals with developmental challenges through empathy, inclusion, and innovation. Founded by a passionate team of educators, clinicians, and advocates, DCSS emerged from a shared vision of creating a supportive ecosystem where every person, regardless of their abilities, is given the opportunity to flourish. Located in Newark, New Jersey, we have grown into a trusted community resource that delivers tailored services, empowers families, and cultivates strong partnerships with schools, healthcare providers, and local organizations. What sets us apart is our unwavering belief in the potential of every individual, and our commitment to turning that belief into action through customized support plans, skill-building programs, and a nurturing environment where progress is celebrated at every level. We understand that development is not linear, and our services are designed to evolve with our clients—honoring their unique paths, respecting their identities, and amplifying their voices. At DCSS, we don’t just care—we connect, we listen, we uplift, and we walk alongside every person as they build a life filled with dignity, confidence, and meaning.
OUR MISSION
Empowering Through Education
Our mission is to deliver deeply compassionate, person‑centered support that unlocks independence and fulfillment for individuals living with developmental challenges. In practice, this means designing holistic care plans that honor each person’s dreams, cultivate their talents, and address their unique barriers with sensitivity and creativity. We collaborate intimately with families, educators, clinicians, and community partners to build a unified circle of care that is both sturdy and adaptive. Every service, conversation, and milestone is guided by the firm belief that dignity is non‑negotiable, growth is continuous, and inclusion is everyone’s responsibility. By nurturing confidence and competence in daily living, communication, and self‑advocacy, we empower our clients to navigate the broader world with courage, joy, and a sense of belonging.
At Developmental Care Support Services (DCSS), our mission is to deliver compassionate, person-centered support that honors the unique potential of individuals with developmental challenges and empowers them to lead fulfilling, independent, and dignified lives. We believe every person, regardless of ability, has the right to be seen, heard, and supported in their journey toward self-determination. Our commitment is rooted in deep respect for human diversity, and we take pride in designing personalized care plans that are as dynamic and multifaceted as the individuals we serve. With the active collaboration of families, caregivers, community stakeholders, and professional partners, we foster inclusive environments that nurture growth, resilience, and connection. Whether through daily life skills coaching, emotional wellness strategies, vocational exploration, or community engagement, every service we offer is thoughtfully aligned with our client’s goals, culture, strengths, and dreams. We aim to break down barriers, combat stigma, and amplify the voices of those too often overlooked. Our mission is not only to support—but to uplift, inspire, and walk alongside our clients every step of the way as they reach their highest potential and experience lives filled with meaning, purpose, and joy.
OUR VISION
A Passion for Practical Learning
We envision a future in which society no longer views developmental differences as limitations but rather as vibrant expressions of human diversity. DCSS aspires to create ripple effects that extend far beyond our immediate community—sparking systemic change, reshaping public perception, and ensuring equitable access to education, employment, and social participation for people of all abilities. Our vision is a tapestry of inclusive neighborhoods where Universal Design principles guide infrastructure, where workplaces actively seek neurodiverse talent, and where schools cultivate empathy as earnestly as academics. By leading with innovation, advocacy, and empathy, DCSS aims to be a catalyst for a world where empowerment is commonplace, opportunity is abundant, and every individual’s contribution is valued and celebrated.
OUR STORY
Adaptive Technology Advocate
DCSS was born from a powerful convergence of personal experience and professional expertise. Our founders—parents, special‑education teachers, social workers, and therapists—witnessed firsthand the frustration of families navigating fragmented systems that often neglected the holistic needs of their loved ones. Determined to fill this gap, they pooled their collective wisdom and resources to establish a sanctuary of comprehensive, heart‑led care. From a modest one‑room office, we have flourished into a multidisciplinary hub that now serves hundreds across Essex County and beyond. Every chapter of our journey has been shaped by resilience: from pioneering inclusive community outings long before accessibility became mainstream practice, to launching innovative technology‑assisted learning modules that empower non‑verbal clients to express themselves with confidence. Our story is still being written—one success, one breakthrough, one life transformed at a time.
Our Programs
Celebrating Small Victories
At Developmental Care Support Services (DCSS), our programs are thoughtfully designed to be comprehensive, flexible, and deeply personalized—responding to the diverse needs of individuals with developmental challenges at every stage of life. We offer an integrated continuum of care that spans individualized support planning, life skills training, behavioral and emotional health services, educational enrichment, vocational coaching, and inclusive community engagement. Each program is rooted in evidence-based practices and delivered with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity. From helping young children build foundational communication skills to supporting adults in achieving employment and independent living, our programs are structured to adapt and grow alongside each person’s evolving abilities, aspirations, and circumstances. We incorporate family involvement and feedback into every layer of our service model, ensuring that care is not only holistic but also sustainable and empowering. Whether through one-on-one coaching, small group learning, or community-based experiences, our goal is to equip every participant with the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive—not only within our programs, but in the broader world where their presence and contributions matter immensely.
Individualized Support Plans
Crafted through in‑depth assessments and heartfelt conversations, our Individualized Support Plans are blueprints for personal success. Each plan harmonizes therapeutic goals, daily living objectives, and long‑term dreams, weaving them into a coordinated schedule of one‑on‑one coaching, group learning, and family engagement. These dynamic roadmaps evolve with the individual—celebrating achievements, recalibrating strategies, and ensuring momentum toward self‑defined milestones.
Life Skills Development
Our Life Skills program immerses participants in real‑world scenarios designed to instill confidence and competence.
From meal planning and grocery budgeting to navigating public transit and digital communication, clients practice skills in supportive settings before applying them independently.
The result is a tangible sense of autonomy that ripples into all areas of life, reinforcing self‑esteem and fueling ambition.
Family & Caregiver Support
We champion families as essential partners. Through interactive workshops, peer‑to‑peer support circles, counseling services, and flexible respite care, we equip caregivers with knowledge, resources, and emotional sustenance.
Our approach alleviates burnout, empowers informed decision‑making, and fosters resilient family ecosystems where every member thrives.
Community Engagement Programs
Inclusion flourishes when individuals actively participate in community life. Our engagement initiatives pair clients with volunteer projects, arts organizations, recreational leagues, and local businesses committed to accessibility. These experiences cultivate social networks, ignite new passions, and break down stigmas one conversation at a time.
Educational & Vocational Training
Education and employment are cornerstones of independence. Whether refining literacy, mastering assistive technology, pursuing certifications, or securing internships, our programs provide structured learning and real‑world practice. Dedicated job coaches liaise with employers to ensure accommodations, promote understanding, and celebrate workplace diversity.
Behavioral & Emotional Health Support
Our team of psychologists, counselors, and behavior analysts delivers compassionate mental‑health care that respects individual histories and cultural contexts. We offer cognitive‑behavioral therapy, social‑skills groups, mindfulness training, and crisis intervention—all integrated within the broader support plan to nurture holistic well‑being.
HOW IT WORKS
Bridging Therapy and Teaching
1. Comprehensive Intake Interview During the intake, we embark on a listening journey, inviting the individual and their support network to share hopes, fears, and aspirations. This collaborative dialogue lays a foundation of trust and informs every service recommendation moving forward.
2. Multidimensional Assessment Our clinicians administer standardized tools, observational sessions, and informal interviews to capture a 360‑degree profile of abilities, challenges, learning styles, and environmental factors. This assessment ensures our approach is precise, personalized, and forward‑thinking.
3. Customized Plan Design Synthesizing assessment data and personal goals, we craft a living document—the Individualized Support Plan—outlining objectives, timelines, and service modalities. Care is structured but flexible, anticipating growth and adjusting seamlessly to evolving needs.
4. Service Alignment & Launch Clients are paired with specialized practitioners and peer groups that best complement their strengths and objectives. From day one, we implement evidence‑based strategies within nurturing environments that encourage exploration and mastery.
5. Ongoing Monitoring & Adaptive Coaching Progress is regularly reviewed through measurable indicators, family feedback, and self‑reflection. We celebrate milestones loudly and address obstacles swiftly, recalibrating interventions to maintain momentum and motivation.
6. Transition Planning & Lifelong Connection Whether the goal is independent living, integrated employment, or ongoing support, we orchestrate smooth transitions—connecting clients to community resources and continuing to serve as an anchor of encouragement for years to come.
WHY CHOOSE US
At DCSS we blend clinical rigor with heartfelt humanity. Families choose us because we marry evidence‑based practices with personalized attention, ensuring services resonate on both practical and emotional levels. Our staff undergoes continuous professional development, including cultural‑competence and trauma‑informed care, so that every interaction is respectful, empowering, and attuned to individual history. We embrace diversity in language, culture, identity, and learning style, fostering a welcoming environment where everyone feels safe to learn and grow. Our outcomes speak for themselves: clients developing independent living skills years ahead of projections, parents reporting renewed optimism, and community partners praising our collaborative spirit. When you choose DCSS, you join a family that is tireless in its pursuit of opportunity, equity, and holistic well‑being.
1. Compassion at the Core
Every service we offer is rooted in compassion. We understand that navigating developmental challenges requires not just skill, but empathy. Our staff is trained to listen deeply, respond with sensitivity, and celebrate each small step as a victory.
2. Inclusive, Culturally Competent Care
We recognize and respect the diverse backgrounds of the individuals and families we serve. Whether it’s through language accessibility, cultural relevance, or honoring individual values, our commitment to inclusion is unwavering.
3. Family-Centered Philosophy
We believe families are the heart of a person’s support network. By involving caregivers in every phase—from planning to progress review—we create stronger outcomes and sustainable support systems.
4. Innovation Meets Experience
Our team combines decades of practical experience with the latest in developmental research and assistive technology. This dual approach keeps our programming dynamic, impactful, and ahead of the curve.
5. Long-Term Commitment
DCSS isn’t just a service provider—we’re a long-term partner in growth. Many of our clients remain with us for years, building lifelong skills and meaningful relationships along the way.
6. Real Results, Real Impact
From increased independence to community inclusion and employment success, our programs have helped hundreds achieve goals once thought unreachable. We are proud of the measurable and lasting transformations our work enables.
Meet Our Team
Michelle Anderson
Program Director
Michelle’s twenty‑plus years in special‑needs leadership are underscored by a philosophy that embraces possibility over limitation. Her strategic vision and warm demeanor steer the organization toward continual innovation while ensuring each client feels respected and empowered.
David Coleman
Clinical Psychologist
David’s expertise in developmental psychology and trauma‑informed care allows him to craft therapeutic strategies that honor personal history and build emotional resilience. His calm presence creates safe spaces where clients explore feelings and unlock new coping mechanisms.
Linda Torres
Family Liaison Coordinator
Linda is the linchpin connecting families with resources, reassurance, and advocacy. With bilingual proficiency and deep cultural competence, she ensures every family’s perspective is heard and integrated into care decisions.
Marcus Green
Vocational Training Specialist
A former HR professional turned advocate, Marcus leverages industry insights to create tailored career pathways. His mentorship extends beyond résumé building, instilling clients with the confidence and professionalism needed to excel.
Sarah Patel
Life Skills Educator
Sarah infuses every lesson with enthusiasm, practical demonstrations, and adaptive technology. Her teaching philosophy centers on celebrating small victories, which collectively generate transformative change in her students’ independence, confidence, and sense of accomplishment.
Jonathan Kim
Community Outreach Manager
Jonathan’s knack for building partnerships has opened countless doors for inclusive activities city‑wide. His tireless networking cultivates environments where our clients are welcomed, respected, and integral contributors.
Testimonials
Words From Satisfied People
“My daughter entered DCSS shy and uncertain; today she is self‑advocating at school board meetings. The program embraced her potential and nurtured it until she believed in it herself. Our family’s gratitude is beyond words.”
Tina R.
“I was drowning in paperwork, therapies, and uncertainty. DCSS did not just offer services—they offered hope, structure, and a team who sees my son’s brilliance every single day.”
Brian S.
“Finding DCSS shifted my world from isolation to community. Their social‑skills groups helped me discover confidence, friendship, and a newfound voice.”
Latoya G.
“We attend every workshop we can. The knowledge we gain and the families we meet give us strength and clarity that ripple far beyond the classroom.”
Tom & Lisa J.
“Two years ago I never imagined having a job. Today I’m celebrating six months at a company that values me—thanks to Marcus and the entire DCSS team.”
Evelyn M.
“The behavioral support has been life‑changing. My son now navigates emotional highs and lows with tools that keep him grounded and engaged.”
Carlos D.
Frequently Asked Question
What age groups do you serve?
We welcome children, adolescents, and adults of all ages who experience developmental challenges, tailoring each program accordingly.
How do I begin the enrollment process?
Simply email contact@dcss.site or call our office to schedule a free consultation. From there, we guide you through assessments, paperwork, and service matching.
What funding options are available?
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Do you provide in‑home services?
Yes. Our mobile team delivers therapies and skill‑building within the comfort and familiarity of home for clients who benefit from that environment.
Are your staff members certified?
Absolutely. Our clinicians and educators maintain licensure and pursue ongoing professional development in evidence‑based practices.
Can I volunteer?
Yes! We offer volunteer roles ranging from mentorship
GET INVOLVED
True transformation thrives when communities unite. We invite you—families, educators, healthcare professionals, volunteers, philanthropists, and corporate allies—to join us in co‑creating brighter futures. Your involvement can take many forms: mentoring a young adult exploring career paths, sponsoring adaptive technology, hosting inclusive events, or amplifying our mission through social media and civic advocacy. Each act of participation, whether grand or subtle, compounds to expand opportunities, deepen understanding, and dismantle outdated barriers. Together, we can reimagine what is possible and forge an unbreakable network of support that uplifts every person we touch.
Contact Us
38 Oakland Terrace, Newark, NJ 07106
contact@dcss.site