Can Self-Determination Program (SDP) funds be used to support a child's caregiver?

If you need some support as your child's caregiver, such as therapy, you may wonder if this kind of support can be added to your child's Self-Determination Program budget.

It may be possible to add support under the category of parent coaching if it is something that could help your child. It's worth trying. You may be able to make a case for why a specific therapist is necessary. Some FMS will allow a therapist as a parent support coach, but some will see "therapist" and reject it no matter what the support is because they don’t cover therapy.

If you cannot secure parent support through SDP funding, the Regional Center may have lists of support groups. Your insurance is another resource for therapy. Undivided has a step-by-step guide to help you fund caregiver therapy.