The Self-Determination Program (SDP) in California offers participants more flexibility than they’d have under the traditional Regional Center service model. But with this flexibility comes a bit more responsibility.
It’s typically up to the participant to let their service coordinator or independent facilitator know if something within SDP isn’t working for them. Speaking up, however, might feel strange or uncomfortable if you tend to avoid confrontation.
In NeuroNav’s June 2026 webinar, our team manager, Carolina Vargas, mentioned some helpful methods for speaking up when your needs aren’t being met in SDP. Stay with us for a closer look at these methods so you can be an effective advocate for yourself.
Productive Phrases to Use when Communicating with Your Service Coordinator
The way you say something is often just as important (or more) than what you say. That’s true for all human communication, and SDP interactions are no different. Carolina stressed that while you may be frustrated if SDP isn’t serving your needs, and rightly so, the best way to move forward is to do so with a solutions-oriented mindset.
Some phrases she mentioned that can help get your message across include:
- “I would like to revisit [issue xyz], please. When can we do that?”
- “Could we walk through [Regional Center decision xyz] together, please?”
- “I’d like some clarification on [issue xyz], please.”
- “I just want to make sure we’re on the same page about [issue xyz].”
- “If I can’t get [service xyz], what are some alternatives I could pursue?”
If you’re worried about upsetting your service coordinator or rocking the boat, Carolina says you shouldn’t be.
“Advocacy is not about blaming or getting someone in trouble. It's making sure you or your loved one gets the support you need so that the planning team can do their job effectively.”
When Collaboration Fails…
Most issues or questions about SDP can be resolved through effective communication with your service coordinator. In those rare cases where you’ve hit a wall, you have some options to escalate your concerns.
1. Touch Base with Your Service Coordinator’s Supervisor.
If your service coordinator just isn’t responding to your questions or doesn’t seem to be addressing your concerns, feel free to CC their supervisor in past or future emails.
Carolina said that when she worked with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), the state agency that runs SDP, service coordinators were usually more than happy to chime in on tricky situations. Again, using polite, solutions-oriented phrases is best.
2. Request an Appeal after Receiving an NOA.
If you disagree with a Regional Center decision, the best way to proceed might be to file a Notice of Appeal (NOA). Participants usually request NOAs after being denied a service or SDP eligibility altogether.
The quicker you file an NOA appeal, the better, as you can retain your current services if you reply within 10 days. After the Regional Center receives your appeal, they will offer a Fair Hearing or some other meeting to resolve the disagreement.
3. Talk to SDP’s Ombudsperson.
Another helpful SDP resource is the program’s ombudsperson. The ombudsperson’s primary responsibility is to provide information to SDP participants and families, but they can also help resolve disagreements. Reaching out to the SDP ombudsperson may help when your service coordinator is unable to properly address your concerns.
4. Open a Section 4731 Complaint.
The last option for escalating an SDP issue is a Section 5731 Complaint. This complaint is reserved for situations where you think the Regional Center is violating your rights. An experienced SDP independent facilitator can help you determine which escalation option is the best one for your circumstances.
Find Your Ultimate SDP Advocate with NeuroNav
Knowing the best ways to communicate with service coordinators and other SDP personnel can help you get your needs met. There’s no substitute, however, for a knowledgeable independent facilitator (IF) who understands the many nuances of SDP.
NeuroNav exists to bring clarity and advocacy to SDP participants and families so they can get the most out of the program. We help those considering enrolling in SDP and current participants seeking optimized IPPs and person-centered plans.
Contact our caring team to set up your free consultation, and don’t forget to sign up for our e-newsletter so you never miss another webinar.