There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to California’s Self-Determination Program (SDP). Independent facilitators (IFs) support families throughout the process, but they can be valuable partners for case managers as well. In our recent panel discussion, independent facilitators shared their views regarding ways they can make regional center case managers’ lives easier.
You can watch the full webinar and hear the full conversation, but in the meantime, we’ll touch on some common myths about SDP along with the valuable insights from our team.
Even case managers might have a lot of questions about CA’s SDP. The whole process might seem challenging at first, but it can actually be easier than traditional services.
During our discussion, Andrea, an experienced IF, points out that IFs can help bridge the gap for case managers, especially when it comes to budget management and money flow.
There’s a lot to know about SDP, and it can be overwhelming, especially for self-advocates. IFs can help make sure clients are informed and well-educated on SDP procedures, schedules, and processes. There are endless opportunities to explore, and an IF can help individuals navigate a world of options.
Victoria, a Transition Navigator at NeuroNav, notes that SDP can be intimidating, but when you have the right support, it doesn’t have to feel so complicated.
If you’re new to SDP, there’s a lot of information to absorb up front. It can be intimidating, to say the least, but don’t be discouraged. It’s not impossible to understand, but it’s challenging to do it alone. This is where an IF can help. There’s a lot to know, and luckily, there are people out there who actually know it!
In our panel discussion, Dana points out that SDP is still a relatively new program, which means there are a lot of new policies, processes, and standards being rolled out as time goes on. She also notes that different regional centers have their own processes, and navigating those discrepancies can be tricky.
Andrea adds that there is nuance to SDP processes, and collaboration is the key to building understanding. Open communication is a valuable asset, and families and IFs need to work together to make sure everyone is on the same page.
So, while it may take a little time to understand, with an experienced IF and a little bit of teamwork, you can figure out all the important SDP concepts you need to be successful.
The new Individual Program Plan (IPP) protocol is robust, but an IF can help streamline the process. Andrea points out that the process is considerably easier when there is a Person-Centered Plan (PCP) in place.
IFs take the time to sit down with individuals and create detailed PCPs that outline their history, strengths, goals, and long-term aspirations. This document can make it easy to put an IPP together when the time comes.
“Our Person-Centered Plan could definitely help the case manager in filling that out and possibly reducing that time in completing the IPP,” says Andrea.
The process can feel long, but it’s easier when you have an IF who has put in the time to understand the client through thoughtful, thorough person-centered planning.
IFs aren’t a replacement for case managers, but they can be a valuable source of support. Dana, an IF with almost a decade of experience working in self-determination, notes IFs should be used as an additional resource and brainstorming partner for case managers.
“We can help keep track of deadlines for renewals and help keep everything as streamlined as possible,” Dana says.
“We’re here to help with some of the heavy lifting,” Andrea adds. Ultimately, SDP is a team effort. IFs and case managers can work in tandem to manage all the moving parts, from handling documents and managing deadlines to identifying and securing services. IFs are there to help bridge the gap between planning and action.
There’s a lot to learn about the CA Self-Determination Program (SDP), but you don’t need to do it alone. Independent facilitators are here to support clients, families, and case managers as they navigate the path to better self-determination.
Learn more about our independent facilitation services and schedule your free consultation today!