a clear guide to the self-determination program
what it is, how budgets work, and simple steps to start with confidence, plus how bttr. supports you end to end
by Giovanny Sarabia
what is the self determination program
the self determination program, or sdp, is a regional center option that gives participants more choice and control. instead of relying only on vendor services, participants direct an individual budget and decide how supports are delivered.
with sdp, you select your team, design your plan, and purchase services that fit your goals, while safeguards and accountability remain in place.
bttr. was born self determination first
bttr. living started with self determination in mind from day one. we understand the real world struggles many participants face with traditional vendors and regional centers, including delays, confusing rules, and supports that feel one size fits all. our work flips that experience with clear steps, real choice, and coaching that matches how you live.
how budgets work
regional centers calculate a yearly individual budget based on your past services and needs. the budget funds the supports you choose under sdp. common uses include
- hire and train your own support staff
- purchase specific services from agencies
- pay for community activities or skill development tied to ipp goals
- add health supports like personal training or adaptive classes when aligned to outcomes
a financial management service, or fms, tracks spending and issues payments. every purchase must connect to ipp outcomes.
who does what, pcp, if, and fms
pcp, person centered planning
maps strengths, needs, and goals and turns ideas into a clear plan you can act on.
if, independent facilitator
helps design the budget, find providers, and navigate approvals so the plan moves.
fms, financial management service
employer of record or bill payer, handles payroll, invoices, and spending reports.
simple steps to start
1. orientation
join an sdp orientation to learn the rules and commitments.
2. request transition
ask your service coordinator to begin sdp.
3. choose your fms
select an fms, employer of record or bill payer model.
4. build plan and budget
create your pcp and proposed budget with your circle of support.
5. launch and adjust
start services, review monthly, and adjust to what actually works.
myths and facts
myth, sdp is only for high needs
fact sdp is for a wide range of needs, the key is aligning supports to ipp goals.
myth, you lose all vendor services
fact many participants mix approaches while transitioning.
myth, budgeting is too hard
fact with a good if and fms, tracking is straightforward and we provide templates.
bttr. self determination services
because we are self determination first, our support is designed for clarity and momentum.
person centered planning
facilitation that turns your goals into weekly actions and measurable outcomes.
independent facilitation
budget design, provider search, meeting support, and approval follow through.
budget and fms coordination
clean templates, spending trackers, and fast issue resolution with your fms.
coaching and skill building
structured coaching aligned to your ipp, life, money, tech, health, express, connect.
monthly reporting
concise summaries for you, family if permitted, and regional center, no jargon.
bottom line you stay in control. we make it easier.
quick faq
can i keep vendor services and still use sdp
yes, many people mix approaches while they transition. your plan and budget should reflect what helps you most right now.
who approves purchases
spending must match your ipp outcomes and follow sdp guidelines. your fms processes payments and the regional center monitors for compliance.
get help
we serve alameda and contra costa communities, including oakland, fremont, hayward, alameda, san leandro, san lorenzo, newark, union city, richmond, concord, and walnut creek.
talk to our team
call us
quick start checklist
- finish orientation
- choose fms model, eor or bill payer
- pick an independent facilitator
- draft pcp and proposed budget
- confirm providers and start dates
we answer quickly and keep things simple