Steps to Self-Direction

Parents of children with developmental disabilities or autism often face many challenges when seeking the best support options. One support option is self-direction, a way for individuals and families to take control of services and supports. This post explains how self-direction works, through OPWDD (Office for People with Developmental Disabilities), and offers practical steps to help parents navigate the process.

A family planning self-direction steps with OPWDD support

Understanding Self-Direction

Self-direction allows individuals with developmental disabilities or autism and their families to manage their own services instead of relying solely on agency providers. This means you can choose who provides support, what kind of help is needed, and how funds are spent within certain guidelines.

The OPWDD supports self-direction as part of its mission to promote independence and community inclusion. Families can tailor supports to fit their child’s unique needs, preferences, and goals. This approach often leads to better satisfaction and outcomes because it puts control in the hands of those who know the individual best.

Step 1: Learn About Eligibility and Options

Before starting self-direction, it’s important to understand if your child qualifies. OPWDD offers services to people with developmental disabilities, including autism, who meet specific criteria.

• Contact your local OPWDD office or visit their website to check eligibility.

• Ask about the different self-direction models available, such as Agency with Choice or Fiscal Intermediary.

• Gather information on what services can be self-directed, like personal care, therapies, or community activities.

  
  

Knowing your options helps you decide if self-direction fits your family’s needs.

Step 2: Attend Orientation and Training

OPWDD requires families to attend orientation sessions about self-direction. These sessions explain how the process works, responsibilities, and available supports.

• Participate in training to learn how to create a person-centered plan.

• Understand budgeting and how to manage funds allocated for services.

• Get familiar with hiring, supervising, and managing workers if you choose to hire directly.

  
  

Training equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and manage self-direction confidently.

Step 3: Develop a Person-Centered Plan

A key part of self-direction is creating a plan focused on your child’s strengths, goals, and preferences.

• Work with a support coordinator or planner to identify needs and desired outcomes.

• Include goals related to daily living skills, social connections, education, or employment.

• Outline the types of services and supports needed to reach these goals.

  
  

This plan guides how funds are used and what supports are arranged, ensuring they align with your child’s unique needs.

Step 4: Choose a Fiscal Intermediary or Agency

Managing funds and payroll can be complex, so OPWDD offers assistance through fiscal intermediaries or agencies.

• A fiscal intermediary handles payments, taxes, and paperwork for workers you hire.

• Some families prefer an agency to provide support staff while still maintaining control over services.

• Compare options to find the best fit for your family’s comfort and capacity.

  
  

This step helps reduce administrative burdens while keeping control over service choices.

Step 5: Hire and Manage Support Staff

If you decide to hire workers directly, you become an employer responsible for recruitment, training, and supervision.

• Write clear job descriptions based on your child’s needs.

• Interview candidates carefully to find the right match.

• Provide ongoing guidance and feedback to ensure quality support.

  
  

Managing staff allows you to build a team that understands your child and delivers personalized care.

Step 6: Monitor and Adjust the Plan

Self-direction is flexible, so your plan can change as your child grows or needs evolve.

• Regularly review progress toward goals.

• Adjust services or supports if something isn’t working.

• Communicate with your support coordinator and fiscal intermediary for help.

  
  

Staying involved ensures your child continues to receive the right support at the right time.

Step 7: Use Available Resources and Support Networks

Many families find it helpful to connect with others who are self-directing or have experience with OPWDD.

• Join local or online support groups for parents.

• Attend workshops or webinars on self-direction topics.

• Reach out to advocacy organizations for guidance.

  
  

These resources provide practical advice, emotional support, and ideas to improve your self-direction experience.

Self-direction offers families a powerful way to shape services around their child’s unique needs. By learning about eligibility, attending training, creating a person-centered plan, choosing the right fiscal support, managing staff, and staying flexible, parents can build a support system that promotes independence and quality of life.

Need personalized help?

Visit Self-Direction | Avery's Mom to book a free 15-minute Self-Direction Consultation and grab my FREE Self-Direction Guide.