You know when you find your person? The person that takes the load off of your shoulders and carries it for you. Well, today you are going to meet Rachel Credo, the Independent Facilitator that we have been working with as we navigate the Self-Determination Program. For our family, Rachel is that person.

I asked Rachel to be our guest today and answer a few questions. Without further adieu, meet Rachel Credo, CEO of A Pathway to Automony.

What made you want to become an Independent Facilitator?

I've always had a strong desire to serve my community. With my background in case management and service coordination at Westside Regional Center, I understand how complex the SDP enrollment process is. When I decided to establish my own business as a regional center service provider, I knew I wanted to be an Independent Facilitator to assist parents and individuals interested in enrolling/transitioning to SDP. I enjoy the idea of working to fulfill each individual's unique requirements, and with SDP, every individual and parent can purchase inclusive and person-centered services offered in their community.

Is there a benefit to going with the self-determination program vs obtaining your services through the regional center?

The most significant advantage of establishing self-determination program over regional center traditional services is that individuals and parents will have greater freedom and flexibility in purchasing services. Individuals/parents are not limited to receiving services from service providers vendored with the regional centers. They can use service providers that are inclusive and available in the community and hire skilled employees. Essentially, you have a larger pool of service providers to choose from since you can purchase service providers who are not vendored with regional centers. Self-determination encourages a person-centered approach to meeting every need of an individual. It is an excellent program.

What are some of the services you have successfully advocated for?

I've advocated for a multitude of services including childcare/daycare, personal assistance, vocational support, social-recreational support, social skills training, camp services, equipment provision, supported living services, day services, clinical support, and other individualized services as required. It is important to recognize that each individual have distinct demands. When I facilitate the person-centered process, I thoroughly evaluate the needs and create a detailed person-centered plan report. This report will specify the services requested for inclusion in the SDP budget.

Does a client pay you directly for their services?

No. The enrollment process, often referred to as the person-centered process, is funded by the regional center. Upon completion of enrollment and the decision by the individual or parents to engage the Independent Facilitator for continued facilitation services, payment will be sourced from the SDP spending plan.

If you are navigating your way through the SDP I sincerely hope you find your person. A good Independent Facilitator can make this process easier. Thanks Rachel, for helping us through this!