What you need to know about

Person Centered Planning

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Person-centered planning (PCP) is a powerful approach for supporting individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling, self-directed lives. For parents, understanding the philosophy and process of PCP is key to advocating effectively for their child’s future. Here are the most important things parents need to know:

 

1. It’s About the Person, Not the System

PCP focuses on the individual’s goals, preferences, and strengths, not on fitting them into existing services or programs. It's a shift from asking, "What services are available?" to "What does this person want and need?"

 

2. The Person Is at the Center

The person with the disability is the central decision-maker whenever possible. They should be actively involved in setting goals and shaping their future—even if they need support to do so.

• Tip for parents: Support your child in expressing their preferences. This might include using communication aids, visual supports, or simply giving them space and time to share their views.

 

3. Family Input Still Matters

While the individual is central, families and other loved ones play a crucial supporting role. Your insights and long-term perspective are valuable in building a realistic and supportive plan.

 

4. It’s a Collaborative Process

A person-centered plan is typically developed by a team—including the individual, family, professionals (teachers, therapists, case managers), and sometimes friends or community members. The team works together to identify:

• The person's dreams and goals

• Strengths and abilities

• Supports needed to reach their goals

• Resources in the community

 

5. It’s Not a One-Time Event

Person-centered planning is ongoing. People's needs, interests, and goals evolve over time. Plans should be revisited and updated regularly—especially during life transitions (e.g., from school to adult life).

 

6. It Promotes Independence and Inclusion

PCP is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves:

• A voice in their future

• Community inclusion

• Opportunities to contribute and belong

Parents should expect the planning process to focus on how their child can live, work, and participate in the community as fully as possible.

 

7. It Can Inform Key Services

A strong PCP can guide:

• IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)

• Transition planning for adulthood

• Employment goals and services

• Housing supports

• Government service planning (e.g., Medicaid, vocational rehabilitation)

 

8. It Requires Creativity and Flexibility

Not every solution will come from a formal system. PCP often includes natural supports (friends, neighbors, community groups), technology, and creative problem-solving to meet the person’s needs.

 

9. You May Need a Facilitator

Some families choose to work with a person-centered planning facilitator—someone trained to guide the planning session, ensure the person is heard, and help the team stay focused. Facilitators can be especially helpful during transition planning or complex situations.

 

10. Advocacy Is Part of the Process

Sometimes systems don’t easily accommodate what’s in the person-centered plan. Parents may need to advocate for services or accommodations, using the PCP as a foundation.