Independent Facilitation | Adaptability Path

Independent Facilitation (IF)

An Independent Facilitator (IF) is a key support person in the Self-Determination Program (SDP) for individuals receiving services through a Regional Center in California.

Responsibilities of an Independent Facilitator:

Helps individuals create a Person-Centered Plan, identifying their goals, preferences, and needs.
Supports individuals in defining their vision for independent living, employment, social connections, and services.
Guides individuals and families through the transition from Traditional Services to the Self-Determination Program.
Explains rights, responsibilities, and opportunities under SDP.
Assists in developing an Individual Budget based on past Regional Center spending.
Helps allocate funds to appropriate services and supports.
Works with a Financial Management Services (FMS) provider to ensure proper fund management.

Service Provider Identification & Coordination:

Helps find and coordinate service providers that align with the individual’s needs and goals.
Assists in negotiating contracts and payment rates with provider
Helps resolve issues between the individual, Regional Center, and service providers.
Provides assistance in modifying the budget or services as needs change.

Regional Center Pays for an Independent Facilitator:

During the Transition to the Self-Determination Program (SDP), the Regional Center may cover Person-Centered Planning (PCP) services to help individuals develop their initial plan.
The cost is covered under the Regional Center’s traditional funding, NOT from the individual’s budget.

The Client Pays for an Independent Facilitator:

Once an individual enters Self-Determination, the Independent Facilitator is paid from the client’s Individual Budget.

Paid from the Client's SDP Budget:

Ongoing Independent Facilitation services
Budget development assistance

Important:

The client decides how much to allocate for IF services. There is no set rate—payment must be negotiated with the IF.

Who Handles Payments?

The Financial Management Services (FMS) provider will pay the IF from the client’s Self-Determination budget after services are approved.
The Independent Facilitator is NOT an employee of the Regional Center but rather a contracted provider chosen by the client.