Consent to Receive Services

Policy & Procedure
Effective Date: January 1, 2025

At bttr., we believe informed consent is the foundation of ethical, respectful, and person-centered service delivery. Before any services are provided, every participant — or their legally authorized representative — must clearly understand and voluntarily agree to receive support through bttr.

This policy outlines what informed consent means, which services it applies to, who can provide it, and how services may begin, change, or end. Our goal is to ensure that every participant feels informed, empowered, and in control of their service experience from the start.

Consent is not a formality. It is a right — and a reflection of our values: transparency, autonomy, communication, and choice.

What Is Informed Consent?

Informed consent means that the participant (or their authorized representative):

  • Understands who bttr. is and what services are being offered

  • Is aware that services are funded by the California Regional Center system or Self-Determination Program (SDP)

  • Has reviewed how services work, what participation involves, and how to request changes or discontinue support

  • Understands how personal information will be used, stored, and protected

  • Voluntarily agrees to begin services with full knowledge of their rights and responsibilities

Consent must be given freely — without pressure, confusion, or fear. Participants may ask questions, request accommodations, or withdraw consent at any time.

Who May Provide Consent?

Consent must be provided by one of the following:

  • The participant, if they are legally able to give consent

  • A parent or guardian, if the participant is a minor

  • A court-appointed conservator or legally authorized representative

  • A designated support person acting under appropriate legal authority

Participants may invite the support of family members, advocates, or Regional Center staff when reviewing the consent process. bttr. is committed to ensuring that consent is both understood and respected.

Services Covered by This Consent

Consent applies to any of the following programs authorized through a Regional Center or Self-Determination budget:

1. Independent Living Services (ILS)

One-on-one coaching focused on skill-building and independent living. Topics may include budgeting, cooking, communication, community safety, personal health, self-advocacy, and more. Coaching is delivered in the participant’s home or in the community, based on individual goals.

2. Supported Living Services (SLS)

Comprehensive in-home support designed for individuals living independently. Services focus on daily routines, safety, housing stability, personal care assistance (excluding medical tasks), and autonomy. SLS may include 24/7 staffing, depending on Regional Center authorization.

3. Community Integration Training Program (CITP)

Community-based learning in a small group format with individualized coaching. CITP emphasizes social connection, public safety, job readiness exposure, communication, and independence in real-world environments.

All services are delivered in accordance with:

  • An approved Individual Program Plan (IPP) through a California Regional Center

  • Or a Self-Determination Program (SDP) Individual Service Plan (ISP) and associated Purchase of Services (POS)

bttr. services are fully funded through the Regional Center system or via a participant’s FMS (Financial Management Service). There are no out-of-pocket costs for participants.

Requirements to Begin Services

Before services can begin, the following conditions must be met:

  • Participant has Regional Center or SDP authorization for services

  • Intake assessment has been completed with bttr. staff

  • An initial Individualized Service Plan (ISP) has been reviewed and agreed upon

  • Participant resides within a service area approved by the Regional Center or FMS

  • The participant demonstrates a willingness to engage respectfully and actively in services

All services begin only after bttr. confirms authorization, planning, and readiness — in collaboration with the participant and their support team.

Withdrawing or Ending Services

Participants have the right to stop services at any time. In most cases, we request a 30-day written notice to ensure proper transition and closure.

Services may end if:

  • The participant or representative withdraws consent

  • The participant is no longer authorized or eligible through their Regional Center or SDP

  • The participant relocates outside of the approved service area

  • Program goals have been successfully completed

  • There is a pattern of non-participation or refusal to engage in services

  • A serious violation of safety, conduct, or service terms occurs

We are committed to making any transition as smooth and respectful as possible, with collaboration from the participant, their family or representative, and Regional Center staff.

Notice of Withdrawal

To end services, the participant (or representative) should provide written notice to both:

  • bttr. – via email at info@bttrliving.com or by notifying a coach directly

  • Their Regional Center Service Coordinator or FMS provider, if under SDP

This notice should be submitted at least 30 calendar days in advance, unless there is an emergency or agreement with bttr. to end sooner. This period allows for proper planning, documentation, and closure of the case.

Exception: In cases where a participant poses a serious safety risk, refuses services for an extended period, or violates critical terms of the service agreement (e.g., harassment, abuse of staff, destruction of property), bttr. reserves the right to terminate services immediately. Written notice will be sent to the participant, Regional Center, and FMS, if applicable.

Consent to Communication

By giving consent to receive services, participants also agree to allow bttr. to:

  • Communicate by phone, email, text, or in person for service-related matters

  • Coordinate with authorized Regional Center staff or representatives

  • Maintain and store records in secure systems compliant with Title 17, HIPAA, and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA)

  • Share relevant documentation with Regional Center staff for reporting and planning

  • Request updated consent if services are modified or expanded

Participant information is never sold, shared, or distributed outside of authorized, service-related use.

Participant Rights

Every individual receiving services through bttr. has the right to:

  • Be treated with respect, dignity, and cultural sensitivity

  • Ask questions and receive clear, understandable answers

  • Decline or modify services without fear of retaliation

  • Participate fully in planning and decision-making

  • Access their records and request changes

  • File a complaint or grievance through bttr., the Regional Center, or the Department of Developmental Services

  • Choose who participates in their care or support meetings

  • Request accommodations, interpretation, or materials in their preferred language or format

We are committed to protecting and upholding these rights at every stage of service delivery.

Questions or Support

If you need help understanding this policy, or if you’d like it provided in a different language or accessible format, please contact:

📩 Email: info@bttrliving.com
📞 Support Line: Your bttr. Coach or Program Lead
🌐 Website: www.bttrliving.com

Additional guidance is available from the California Department of Developmental Services:
📍 www.dds.ca.gov | 📞 (916) 654-1987

At bttr., we believe consent is more than a checkbox — it’s the beginning of trust.
Thank you for allowing us to support you in your journey toward independence, stability, and growth.
Let’s build something better. Together.