---
title: 3 Tips for Writing a Person-Centered Plan that Works for You
description: The person-centered plan (PCP) in the Self-Determination Program is not just a formality. It’s crucial in maximizing the benefits and freedoms of the SDP.
image: https://neuronav.org/hubfs/131.jpg
---

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# 3 Tips for Writing a Person-Centered Plan that Works for You

![A happy family holds hands andwalksk together toward the camera](https://neuronav.org/hubfs/131.jpg)

In a system as complex as the [Self-Determination Program](https://www.dds.ca.gov/initiatives/sdp/) (SDP) in California, the person-centered plan (PCP) might seem like just another formality—maybe even a hurdle. Understanding the ultimate purpose of a PCP, though, can help you or your child write one that unlocks the full potential of the SDP.

NeuroNav’s SDP Program Director, Suzy Requarth, recently hosted a [webinar](https://neuronav.org/webinars/pcp) aimed at clarifying the purpose of person-centered planning for families interested in the SDP. Keep reading for webinar highlights and additional information to help you maximize the effectiveness of your PCP.

## What is a Person-Centered Plan (PCP)?

A person-centered plan (PCP) is the first major step for many SDP participants. Though it isn’t mandatory, the PCP is an opportunity for those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs) to document what they want to get out of life.

If that sounds a little generic, that’s somewhat by design. The person-centered planning process is the time for dreaming and not being constrained by what you think you *can’t* do.

Focus on your strengths and your goals for living a fulfilling life. An effective PCP sets the tone for the rest of the SDP enrollment process.

### The PCP is NOT the Same as the IPP

Although a strong PCP is a huge asset for individual program plans (IPPS), the two are distinct documents within the SDP. See the table below for a breakdown of the key differences.

|   | **PCP** | **IPP** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Scope:** | Broad view of a participant’s strengths, preferences, and dreams | Narrower focus on the funding and services needed to accomplish participants’ goals and dreams |
| **People involved:** | Circle of support, possibly including the Regional Center service coordinator or independent facilitator | Circle of support plus Regional Center employees, independent facilitator |
| **Mandatory in SDP?** | No, but recommended | Yes |
| **Document owner:** | SDP participant | Regional Center |
| **Updated:** | As often as the participant wants | Annually, at a minimum |

## 3 Tips for Optimizing the Person-Centered Planning Process

NeuroNav emphasizes the importance of PCPs being “living, breathing documents,” as Suzy reiterated in the webinar. Check out the following tips to ensure yours sets a good foundation for your participation in the SDP and serves you well for the next few decades.

### 1. Bring in As Many People as You’d Like

When it comes time to nail down your IPP and individual budget with your Regional Center, you probably won’t be working as closely with numerous friends, family, and loved ones.

In the early stages of the process, though, don’t be shy about inviting whoever is important to you! Humans are social creatures, and participants’ loved ones often have valuable insights about their needs, goals, and personalities.

Remember: Either a Regional Center employee or an independent facilitator (IF) can write your PCP, and both can be compensated for their efforts through your individual budget.

### 2. Think Beyond Services and Supports

As Suzy explained in the webinar, the IPP can sometimes pigeonhole participants into being patients who constantly need to improve on their baseline capabilities. In other words, IPPs can become much too clinical.

The PCP is a chance to break out of that framework. Describe how you want to spend your leisure time, for instance.

“Sometimes we just want to focus on the things that make us happy, and fill our cup, and not what skill can I be building right now. So a PCP allows some space for that,” Suzy said.

### 3. Use the PCP for Other Areas of Your Life

A well-written PCP can benefit SDP participants in multiple settings. You may want to show your PCP to your primary care physician, therapists, and other support staff. Even your friends will enjoy learning about you and your preferences. The more others know about you, the more you can live life on your terms.

## Discover More Information About SDP

As important as the PCP is for participants, it’s only the first step in a somewhat long and complex enrollment process. Getting to the finish line is easier when you have an experienced and knowledgeable [independent facilitation](https://neuronav.org/services) team to guide you.

Whether you’re already in the SDP or thinking about enrolling, NeuroNav would be honored to advocate for your needs and goals at every turn. Contact us at your convenience to schedule your [free consultation.](https://neuronav.org/free-consultation)

Don’t forget to also sign up for our [newsletter](https://neuronav.org/newslettersignup) so you never miss another webinar.

## Related Articles

Dive into more topics and stories that resonate with your interests. Our handpicked articles offer a deeper look into the world of Self-Determination and beyond.

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### [Unlocking Choice: A Webinar Recap for Families Getting Started with SDP](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/webinar-recap-families-getting-started-sdp)

 July 29, 2025

 If you’ve ever felt like traditional services don’t quite fit your or your loved one’s needs, you’re not alone. That’s...

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[independent facilitator](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/tag/independent-facilitator)

### [What Is an Independent Facilitator?](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/what-is-an-independent-facilitator)

 June 12, 2024

 The independent facilitator is an important figure for many people involved with California’s Self-Determination...

[Read more](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/what-is-an-independent-facilitator)

 Check all articles

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