Self-Determination Program in California: Is It Right for Your Family?

If you’ve ever wished you had more choice and control over your child’s Regional Center services, the Self-Determination Program (SDP) might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Launched statewide in 2021, California’s Self-Determination Program gives individuals and families the freedom to design their own supports, hire the providers they choose, and create a life plan that truly reflects the person’s interests, culture, and goals.

But how does it work—and is it the right path for your family?

Let’s break it down together.

What Is the Self-Determination Program (SDP)?

The Self-Determination Program is a voluntary alternative to the traditional way of getting services through your Regional Center. Instead of the Regional Center choosing your providers from a pre-approved list, you (or your loved one) decide how to spend an individualized budget to meet your goals.

You still get support from the Regional Center—but now, you’re in the driver’s seat.

Key Features of SDP:

• More freedom and flexibility to choose your services and who provides them

• An individualized budget based on past services (with room for changes as needed)

• A Person-Centered Plan that guides how you use your budget

• Support from an Independent Facilitator (optional but helpful)

• A Financial Management Service (FMS) to help track spending and payments

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for SDP, the individual must:

• Be a client of a California Regional Center

• Be age 3 or older

• Not live in a licensed residential facility (some exceptions apply)

• Be willing to complete an orientation before enrolling

If you’re not sure if you meet the criteria, reach out to your Regional Center or Service Coordinator—they can guide you through the process.

Why Do Families Choose Self-Determination?

Families often choose SDP because they want:

✅ Culturally responsive supports
You can hire staff who speak your language, understand your values, or reflect your family’s culture.

✅ More meaningful activities
Instead of only using vendors on a list, you can fund community classes, art programs, mentors, or even a trusted neighbor to support your child.

✅ A say in who’s on your team
No more waiting months for vendor approval—you choose the people who are the best fit.

✅ Flexibility for changing needs
If your child’s needs shift, so can your plan. It’s not a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

✅ A truly person-led life
The entire program is built around the person’s voice, choices, and goals. That’s the heart of self-determination.

What to Consider Before Enrolling

The Self-Determination Program is empowering—but it also comes with responsibility.

You’ll need to:

• Be involved in planning and tracking your budget

• Coordinate services and providers (or work with a facilitator who can help)

• Make decisions based on the Person-Centered Plan

Many families find it helpful to start small—choosing just one or two services to personalize before fully switching over.

And remember: you’re not alone. There are Independent Facilitators, peer mentors, and parent networks ready to guide you through the process.

How to Get Started

1. Contact your Regional Center and ask to attend an SDP Orientation (required to enroll)

2. Request a Person-Centered Plan meeting

3. Choose a Financial Management Service (FMS)

4. Decide whether you’d like to work with an Independent Facilitator

5. Begin building your supports and services—your way!

Is SDP Right for You?

If you’ve ever said, “I wish we could find something that really works for my child” or “I want more say in who helps us,” then the Self-Determination Program might be a great fit.

It’s not the easiest road—but it’s one that’s deeply personal, flexible, and empowering. And with the right support, families can thrive in this model.

Curious if Self-Determination could work for your family?
Let’s talk it through. You can book a free consultation to explore your options, understand your rights, and get step-by-step guidance.

Together, we can help you create a life plan that reflects your child’s strengths, dreams, and culture—because every person deserves to live on their own terms.