The first step for Californians wishing to enroll in the Self-Determination Program (SDP) is to attend an initial orientation session. Future participants have much to learn about the SDP, which can help those with developmental disabilities receive services and support more efficiently and effectively. Keep reading for information on what to expect at an orientation session.
What is SDP Orientation?
Self-Determination Program participants are required to attend an orientation session before using their individual budgets to obtain services. You can usually sign up for an orientation session through your respective regional center. Some sessions may be offered virtually.
You can think of SDP orientation as SDP training. Each orientation session takes no more than a couple of hours. During your time in orientation, you will receive vital information about:
- The program itself
- Person-centered planning
- Your individual budget
- Identifying necessary services
- Paying your financial management service (FMS)
- And more!
Under California’s Lanterman Act, orientation sessions also cover the role of independent facilitators and tips for recognizing abuse within the SDP. Each session concludes with an overview of the next steps for participants, who will receive completion certificates.
SDP Orientation Schedules & Locations
If you prefer non-virtual sessions, your regional center (there are 21 throughout California) may hold in-person orientation.
If you have trouble attending one held through your regional center, statewide sessions may be available through the State Council for Developmental Disabilities (SCDD).
Please note that this entity is different from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), which administers the SDP. To sign up for orientation and view times for sessions in languages other than English, visit this web page.
Other SDP Modules
Besides the required initial orientation for the Self-Determination Program, other modules may provide useful information for SDP participants. These modules provide in-depth information on topics such as Individual Program Plans (IPPs), person-centered planning (PCP), and financial management services (FMS) that may not have been covered during initial orientation.
How to Prepare for Your SDP Orientation
The initial orientation for future SDP participants contains useful and important information. Expect to receive a comprehensive overview of the Program, instructions for developing your person-centered plan, tools for self-advocation, and much more. To get the most out of your orientation session, it’s worth preparing with the following tips.
Decide whether you want in-person or virtual orientation
The COVID-19 pandemic showed the importance and relative ease of conducting virtual meetings whenever possible. Certain SDP participants might be more comfortable with online orientations due to health conditions or mobility challenges.
Other times, participants and their support team may want face-to-face meetings with regional center staff to develop a trusting alliance. Whatever your choice, double-check the orientation method before signing up for a session.
Check technology requirements (for virtual attendees)
Ensure your computer, laptop, tablet, or device you’re using for orientation is properly charged for a two-hour session. Testing the audio and video capabilities ahead of time might also be useful.
We recommend generally familiarizing yourself with the orientation platform, as participants sometimes have opportunities to ask questions during sessions.
Encourage loved ones to attend the orientation
While some may regard the Self-Determination Program orientation as a mere formality, there’s arguably no better chance to discover all the Program offers. Participants can benefit from the information presented at orientation, but every circle of support should also attend, as these loved ones play integral roles in carrying out the spending plan and other parts of the SDP.
Discover More SDP Resources & Insight
Although important, the orientation is just one chance to learn about the SDP. Independent facilitators, including those offered by NeuroNav, can guide participants and their circles of support every step of the way. You can pay for our services from the individual budget.
To talk with an experienced and trustworthy team, contact NeuroNav for a free consultation today. Feel free to peruse our collection of articles on California’s SDP and getting the most out of services.
