Looking for an Independent Facilitator? 

The Independent Facilitator (IF) supports individuals with developmental disabilities and their families who are participating in California’s Self-Determination Program (SDP). The IF provides neutral, participant-directed guidance to assist individuals in identifying goals, developing person-centered plans, understanding SDP processes, and navigating available supports and services. The IF does not provide direct services and maintains strict conflict-of-interest standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Facilitate person-centered planning that reflects the individual’s goals, preferences, strengths, and cultural values

  • Educate participants and families on the Self-Determination Program, including rights, responsibilities, and available options

  • Assist participants in developing and updating their Person-Centered Plan (PCP)

  • Support participants in identifying service needs, providers, and community resources in a neutral and unbiased manner

  • Assist with preparation for IPPs, PCP meetings, and SDP-related meetings as requested by the participant

  • Support participants in understanding and managing their SDP budget, in collaboration with the Financial Management Services (FMS) provider

  • Maintain accurate documentation, service logs, and progress notes in compliance with Regional Center and DDS guidelines

  • Uphold confidentiality and privacy standards, including HIPAA-adjacent practices

  • Maintain strict conflict-of-interest compliance, avoiding provision of other paid SDP services to the same participant

  • Collaborate respectfully with Regional Center staff, FMS providers, and other stakeholders while remaining participant-directed

  • Participate in ongoing training related to SDP, person-centered thinking, and disability services

Training & Education

  • Completed Independent Facilitator training through the Independent Facilitator Training Academy

  • Completed California Self-Determination Program (SDP) Orientation

  • Training topics include:

    • Self-Determination Program principles and requirements

    • Person-Centered Thinking and Person-Centered Planning

    • Independent Facilitator roles, responsibilities, and ethics

    • Conflict-of-interest standards and neutrality requirements

    • SDP budgets and coordination with Financial Management Services (FMS)

About me: 

I am a lifelong resident of Fresno County, born and raised in the community I proudly serve. I hold a Master’s degree in Strategic and Organizational Leadership from Fresno Pacific University, which has shaped my approach to leadership, advocacy, and collaborative problem-solving.

I bring over five years of experience working with Regional Center–specific member populations and more than ten years of experience in community navigation and advocacy. Throughout my work, I have supported individuals and families in understanding complex systems, accessing resources, and advocating for services that align with their goals, strengths, and lived experiences.

I am bilingual in Hmong and English and work from a tricultural perspective, grounded in modern American, Hmong, and Hispanic cultures. This lens allows me to build trust across communities, honor cultural values, and support families in ways that feel respectful, accessible, and authentic.

I am the Founder and President of Sia’s Place, a nonprofit organization established with the sole purpose of supporting families and breaking down barriers to equitable access and opportunity. As an Independent Facilitator, my approach is rooted in empathy, cultural responsiveness, and participant-directed planning. I believe every individual deserves to be heard, understood, and supported in building a life that reflects their vision and priorities.

Create Your Own Website With Webador