Guides
ADA vs DDS Rights in California: What’s the Difference?
People with developmental disabilities in California are protected by two important legal frameworks.
Adaptive Fitness: Home Exercises & Local Programs
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is committed to providing comprehensive care for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Anti-Retaliation Protections: Your Rights
Under important state laws like the Lanterman Act, individuals with developmental disabilities who live in California enjoy a robust set of legal rights and.
Behavioral Health: Recognizing Signs & Getting Help
While behavioral health challenges can affect anyone, they can often by a particularly pressing concern for many people with developmental disabilities.
Behavioral Supports: ABA vs Positive Behavior Support
One of top priorities of the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is to provide individualized care tailored to the unique needs, goals.
Building Your Personal DDS File (Binder System)
Navigating the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") can sometimes become overwhelming thanks to the large number of documents, records.
California DDS FAQ #1: Common Questions Answered
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides a wide range of services and supports to developmentally disabled individuals and their.
Checklist: Applying for DDS in California (Printable)
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides vital care, resources, and support for Californians with developmental disabilities.
Community Inclusion: Sports, Arts, and Recreation
One of the top priorities for the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is providing care that empowers developmentally disabled.
Confidentiality & HIPAA for DDS Participants
Privacy is a major concern whenever a person receives medical care. Given the extremely personal nature of medical records, there has been significant effort.
Coordinated Family Support: Building a Support Plan
In an effort to more fully assist adults with developmental disabilities who choose to live in their family home, the California Department of Developmental.
Coordinated Family Support: Crisis Plan Template (Download)
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") launched the Coordinated Family Support ("CFS") program specifically for developmentally disabled.
Coordinated Family Support: Crisis Stabilization Basics
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides care and support services to developmentally disabled individuals at all stages of life.
DDS Appeals: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
By law, everyone in the state of California has the right to appeal a decision or action taken by the California Department of Developmental Services.
DDS vs Department of Rehabilitation (DOR): Who Does What?
California is committed to providing care and support for developmentally disabled individuals and their families.
Deaf & Hard of Hearing: Funding Options for Equipment
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides a number of resources to individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing.
Digital Accessibility: WCAG 2.1 AA for DDS
Accessibility is a key component of providing care for those with developmental disabilities.
Digital Safety & Privacy for Families
In general, digital safety and privacy is a major concern in our contemporary world. This is particularly true when it comes to medical records and data.
Disability Rights Resources in California (Directory)
California is one of the best states when it comes to disability rights. Between the Lanterman Act, which guarantees a right to individualized care, to.
Downloadable Forms: IPP Prep, Hearing Request, Notes Log
Under the Lanterman Act, all developmentally disabled individuals in California have a right to receive care through the California Department of.
DSP Training: Medication Administration Basics
All staff within the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") who work directly with program participants must complete Direct Support.
DSP Training: Module-by-Module Study Guide
The experts who provide direct care and services are the beating heart of the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS").
Early Start: Occupational Therapy and Sensory Supports
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides care, resources, and support to Californians with developmental disabilities.
Early Start: Speech & Language Therapy Overview
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is committed to providing care, services, resources, and support to individuals with.
Early Start: Transition at Age 3—What Happens Next?
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides critical care, services, and resources to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Eligibility Criteria Explained (Plain Language)
Eligibility for services and benefits through the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is relatively straightforward.
Employment Services: How Job Coaching Works
One of the top priorities of the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities receive.
Employment Services: Paid Internships & Supported Employment
Thanks to California's "Employment First" law, helping developmentally disabled individuals find meaningful work in their communities is a top priority.
Employment Services: Workplace Accommodations in Practice
Workplace accommodations are a key part of ensuring equal employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities in California.
Free Assistive Technology Resources in California
Assistive technology ("AT") is any device that makes it it easier for people with developmental disabilities to live their daily lives.
Guide to IPP Goal-Setting (With Templates)
One of the primary functions of the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is to provide personalized care for individuals with.
HCBS vs Regular Medi-Cal: Key Differences
People with developmental disabilities in California have important resources to ensure they receive the care and support they need.
HCBS Waiver: What’s Covered and What’s Not
One of the core priorities of the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is providing care to individuals with developmental disabilities in.
How the Lanterman Act Protects You
California has one of the nation's most robust systems for providing care and services to those with developmental disabilities.
How to File a DDS Fair Hearing Request
Under California state law, anyone with a developmental disability has a right to receive individualized care and support services.
How to Find Your Regional Center
Regional centers are your primary connection to all DDS services in California. Learn how to find your local center, what services they provide, and how to.
How to Involve an Advocate or Family Member
It can be incredibly helpful and empowering to involve a family member or trusted advocate in all of the care and services you receive from the California.
How To Request an Independent Assessment
To determine eligibility in a number of programs, the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") regularly administers assessments to determine.
How to Request Reasonable Modifications (ADA Title II)
The Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") establishes key legal standards for disability accessibility.
How to Switch HCBS Vendors Mid-Year
In California, one of the most important ways people receive care is through the Home and Community-Based Services ("HCBS") waiver.
How to Track Deadlines and Follow Ups
There can be a lot of moving pieces and players involved in receiving care and services through the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS").
IPP: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Pursuant to the Lanterman Act and other similar laws, Californians with developmental disabilities have a statutory right to receive individualized care.
Mediation vs Fair Hearing: Which Should You Choose?
If you or your loved one receives benefits from the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS"), it's important to know your rights.
Mindfulness for Caregivers: Quick Daily Practices
Providing care for an individual with developmental disabilities is incredibly important work. For many caregivers, it's also deeply rewarding and enriching.
Nutrition & Feeding Challenges: Getting Support
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") aims to provide comprehensive care to program participants.
Peer Support: Finding & Starting Groups
Peer support groups for developmentally disabled individuals and their families provide a powerful source of connection and understanding.
Preparing for Your Intake Interview
One of the most important functions of the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is to determine whether a person is eligible for services.
Regional Centers: Day Programs and Community Integration
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") offers a range of programs and support services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Regional Centers: Residential Options Explained
To support adults with developmental disabilities, the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") offers a range of residential options.
Sample Letters: Appeals, Records Requests, Modifications
Under the Lanterman Act, all developmentally disabled individuals in California have a right to receive care and supports through the California Department.
Sleep & Routines: Tips for Families
Having a healthy sleep routine is a key component of a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle. In particular, consistent, quality sleep helps improve mood.
Stress Management for Parents & Caregivers
Caring for a loved one with a developmental disability can be deeply rewarding. At the same time, it can also be very challenging.
Telehealth Options for Therapies & Coaching
In recent years, telehealth has become increasingly popular across all modes of healthcare, including a wide range of mental health and therapeutic services.
Timelines: From Application to Services
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides crucial services and resources to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Top 7 Mistakes Families Make During DDS Intake
Eligibility for services through the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") is determined by local regional centers through the initial.
Top Support Groups for Parents in California
Caring for a child with developmental disabilities can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are a number of support groups throughout both the.
Transportation Planning for Appointments
Planning transportation to and from appointments is an important part of staying organized and making the most of the services, care, and supports you.
Transportation Services: Vendor Types & Eligibility
Transportation services are among the many services and resources made available by the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS").
Understanding Notice of Proposed Action
When you receive services through the California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS"), you have the right to be informed whenever your services are.
Vendor Dispute Resolution: Step-by-Step
Developmentally disabled individuals in California have robust legal rights and protections.
What Documentation You Need for DDS Eligibility
The California Department of Developmental Services ("DDS") provides critical care, resources, and support to individuals with developmental disabilities.