Frequently Asked Questions
Self Determination is a California option through your Regional Center that gives you more freedom, control, and responsibility in choosing services and supports to meet your goals in your plan. To be eligible, you must be a regional center client. You also must work with a Financial Management Services entity and have an individual budget certified every year.
You lead the person-centered planning process. You can include anyone you would like to help support you in making your decisions. You choose providers, and shape supports around your routines, culture, and goals, within program rules and your budget.
Yes. Children under 3 can continue to receive services from Early Start Program and SDP if the child also qualifies for Regional Center services. These families will continue to use an Individual and Family Service Plan (IFSP) rather than an Individual Program Plan (IPP) that is developed for other regional center consumers.
Luckily, Marinette Group specializes in family-integrated care.
An individual budget is the amount of Regional Center funding available to purchase the services and supports tied to your outcomes. The budget is based on specific rules, including prior spending for many participants already receiving services.
Transitioning into the SDP can be a complex process. An independent facilitator is not required in order to enter the program, but highly encouraged during your transition.
An independent facilitator helps you identify needs, develop options, lead or support the person centered planning process, and help secure the services and supports you choose. The independent facilitator works for you, not the system. Participants are not financially responsible for the independent facilitator's service out of their own pocket.