Parent Question

What is supported decision-making (SDM)?

Published: Feb. 2, 2022Updated: Apr. 17, 2026

Supported decision-making is an alternative to conservatorships, where a person with disabilities selects trusted individuals to help them make decisions. With supported decision-making, your young adult’s voice will be the focal point, so they will typically choose the team they want to help them make decisions based on their short- and long-term goals. SDM can also be used as a tool to teach decision-making skills while providing support in understanding and communicating their wants and needs.

For more information about SDM, check out our article Supported-Decision Making and Conservatorships 101.

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