REGIONAL CENTER RESOURCES

GETTING STARTED

    • Gather Key Documents:

      • Diagnosis reports (autism or other developmental disabilities)

      • IEP/IFSP (if applicable)

      • Medical records or behavioral assessments

      • Proof of residence and identification

    • Write a Family Profile (Save in Google Drive):

      • Your child’s strengths and challenges

      • Daily routines and areas where support is needed

      • Your family's cultural and language needs

      • Caregiver needs (burnout, support, respite, etc.)

    • Create a List of Concerns & Goals:

      • What do you want for your child this year?

      • What would help your family feel more supported?

      • What are your long-term hopes?

  • Ask for the following Services & Supports:

  • Questions to Ask…

    • How often will we meet or check in?

    • How do I reach you if something urgent comes up?

    • What are my appeal rights if something is denied?

    Helpful Tips:

    • Take notes or bring someone with you to help listen.

    • Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or examples.

    • If you feel overwhelmed, ask to schedule a follow-up to continue the conversation.

    • Always follow-up with an email to keep a written record of everything discussed.

California Regional Centers offer a wide range of benefits for families and individuals:

  1. Access to Services and Resources: Regional Centers connect families with essential services such as early intervention, behavioral therapy, and educational support, tailored to meet specific needs.

  2. Personalized Case Management: Each family is assigned a case manager who helps navigate the system, coordinates services, and ensures that the individual’s needs are met.

  3. Advocacy and Legal Support: They advocate for the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities and assist families in understanding and accessing legal protections and entitlements.

  4. Transition Planning: For those moving from childhood to adulthood, Regional Centers offer guidance and resources to support a smooth transition, including vocational training, housing options, and independent living support.

  5. Community Integration: Regional Centers facilitate inclusion and community integration, helping individuals develop social connections and participate in community activities.

  6. Lifelong Support: Regional Centers provide ongoing support throughout the individual’s life, adapting services as needs change over time.

  7. Self-Determination Program: The Self-Determination Program is a service option through California's Regional Center system that gives individuals with developmental disabilities—and their families—more choice and control over the services and supports they receive. Instead of using traditional service providers chosen by the Regional Center, families in the SDP receive an individual budget and the freedom to design a customized plan that reflects their values, goals, and unique needs.