Self-Determination Resources
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SDP Contact Information
For questions and more information about Self-Determination, including meeting schedules and trainings, send an e-mail to …
DDS Resources, Info and Updates
DDS Online SDP Resources
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) web site has great information about the Self-Determination program including a video, frequently asked questions and training materials.
The links below contain information on the current status and background of the Self-Determination Program. Updates will be posted as we progress towards implementation. If you have questions, comments, or want to be notified of updates, please e-mail sdp@dds.ca.gov.
DDS SDP Information
New “Office of SDP Ombudsperson” Created to Assist Individuals & Families
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is pleased to announce that Katie Hornberger has been appointed as the Acting Ombudsperson for the Self-Determination Program (SDP). Ms. Hornberger comes to DDS from Disability Rights California where she was the Director of the Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy.
The Acting Ombudsperson will address SDP questions and concerns while the new Office of the SDP Ombudsperson is being set up and permanently staffed pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code section 4685.9.
Visit the new SDP Ombudsperson website here
On the new website you will find:
- Information about the office
- Information about Katie
- A form to fill out if you need help
- The Ombudsperson Office e-mail address (SDP.Ombudsperson@dds.ca.gov) and toll-free phone number (1.877.658.9731)
All inquiries to the Ombudsperson Office are confidential. Informational meetings with regional centers, parent groups and other interested parties are being scheduled to help educate everyone about the new office.
View a presentation on the Office of the Ombudsperson for Self-Determination:
DDS SDP Updates
SDP – Goods and Services (01.13.22)
In alignment with the key principles of the Self-Determination Program (SDP), participants have the authority to control an individual budget to purchase needed services and supports to achieve their Individual Program Plan (IPP) goals. The purpose of this correspondence is to provide additional guidance regarding goods and services in the SDP. Read the entire letter from DDS
Self-Determination Program: Individual Budget Development and Certification Tool and Spending Plan Frequently Asked Questions (01.28.22)
Self-Determination Program (SDP): Regional Center Payment of Financial Management Services for SDP Participants (07.27.22)
Self-Determination Program: Initial Person-Centered Plan and Pre-Enrollment Transition Supports Guidance (07.28.22)
Self-Determination Program: Standardized Vendorization Packet for Pre-Enrollment Supports (03.20.23)
Self-Determination Program: Financial Management Services Revised Rates (04.26.23)
Self-Determination Program: Final Extension of Initial Person-Centered Plan and Pre-Enrollment Transition Supports (06.30.23)
Independent Facilitators & Financial Management Services
- The California Self-Determination Program Network: Connecting Self-Determining Californians with independent facilitators and other service providers. Click here to visit their website
- Financial Management Services providers: Participants in the Self-Determination Program (SDP) will get support from a person or business to help them pay for services they need. This person or business is called a Financial Management Services provider. Click here to see the DDS list of FMS providers currently available.
Download Lanterman’s list of Financial Management Services (FMS) and General SD Supports (099) (revised 08.07.25)
Download Lanterman’s FMS Vendor Comparison Checklist Flyer - Independent Facilitators Listing for Los Angeles County: individuals and companies who have notified the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, Los Angeles Office that they provide independent facilitation services in Los Angeles County. We cannot guarantee the quality of their work, the training they have received, or your satisfaction with their services. This listing is provided as a public service only and is not an endorsement of any person or company listed below.
Download Listing:
Updated August, 2024
Coaching Services
Take advantage of Lanterman’s Coaching Services whether you’re in the program or looking to start your SDP journey. Ally Coaches are here to guide you every step of the way.
Your individual coach will:
- Answer your questions about the Self-Determination Program (SDP)
- Explain the difference between SDP and Traditional services
- Help you get started and guide you through the process
- Share important SDP resources and learning opportunities
Experienced coaches are all fluent in English and Spanish.
Connect with a coach through Ally Comprehensive Services at 310.933.5112 or sdp.lanterman@allycs.org.
View flyer
Person-Centered Links
- Learning Community for Person Centered Practices
- Helen Sanderson Associates is passionate about social change and transforming the way people support and work with each other. We are an international training, development and consultancy team, working to embed person-centered practices in the heart of organizations and communities – creating better lives together.
- Allen and Shea website with a Personal Passport workbook
- It’s My Choice
- DDS’ IPP Resource Manual: A Person-Centered Approach
- “What is Person Centered Planning?” Council for Disabled Children
- Dr. Beth Mount
Other Resources
- One Page Profile Resources
- Resources on Social Media
- More …