Regional Center

Each Regional Center operates independently, but the basic framework for early intervention services will be similar across Regional Centers. This may include occupational, speech, and physical therapy as well as behavioral intervention services, medical equipment, and respite services.

Regional Centers are nonprofit private corporations that contract with the Department of Developmental Services to provide or coordinate services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Referrals to the Regional Center may be made by anyone, including parents, family members and medical providers. Parents who have concerns about their child’s development and wish to self-refer can contact their local Regional Center.

The Regional Center may refer parents to community resources, fund educational sessions or workshops to aid parents in addressing their children’s behaviors at home, or fund in-home consultation with a credentialed behaviorist.

The number of respite hours provided is based largely on the extent of the child’s care needs. Additional respite hours may be available on an emergency basis, e.g., due to a family health emergency or for parents to attend training or conferences related to the child’s disability.

Regional Centers may be able to fund specialized child care services parents who work full-time or are enrolled in job training or education programs beyond the child’s school day. The child’s care and supervision needs must exceed that of a non-disabled child of the same age.