LEARN SDP
What’s the Self-Determination Program (SDP)?
The California Self-Determination Program (SDP), a state initiative signed into law in 2013, is a voluntary program offered by California’s Department of Developmental Services (DDS). The Self-Determination Program, otherwise referred to as SDP, provides participants an alternative way to get their regional center services, compared to the traditional way. As of July 2021, SDP is available to all eligible regional center consumers.
In the traditional way, regional centers select and purchase services for their clients. Under SDP, individuals and their families have greater choice and control over their received supports and services through person-centered planning. This enables them to make decisions that best achieve their personal goals and outcome. SDP allows participants to hire their own support staff, select non-traditional providers, and purchase services that were not previously available.
Instead of relying solely on traditional regional center services, participants in SDP are given a budget that they can use to purchase services and supports that meet their unique needs and goals. This allows for more flexibility, creativity, and independence in designing a plan that reflects the participant’s personal vision for their life.
Is SDP Right for Me?
Wondering if SDP is right for you and if you meet eligibility? SDP provides greater choice and freedom to their participants except it requires additional time, responsibility, and management compared to traditional services. Many participants find the tailored services and support provided through SDP outweigh the time and effort, but not everyone will find SDP as their best choice.
Who is SDP Best For?
If your current needs are not being fulfilled by the traditional Regional Center Services, SDP can be a more helpful option for more personalized care.
Those who may find SDP a good fit include:
- Individuals with complicated needs and in search of a variety of support options
- Self-advocates looking to be more hands-on with their services
- College students requiring customized support for education and life
- Families seeking more choice and flexibility
- Clients with a large support staff or require 24-hour care
- Individuals transitioning into adulthood
- Those exploring independence and increased self-advocacy