Person-Centered Plan
What is Person-Centered Planning?
Person-Centered Planning (PCP) is a way to help you think about what you want in life and how to get there. It’s about your goals, dreams, and the supports you need. You are the focus, and your voice leads the plan. A PCP is a living document that changes as your life changes.
Why is a PCP Important in the Self-Determination Program?
In the Self-Determination Program (SDP), your Person-Centered Plan helps create goals and inform your Individual Program Plan (IPP). It will help you develop a budget that will meet your individual needs. You will use this information when you create your spending plan. It shows what matters to you and what support you need to live the life you want. You are not required to have one in SDP but it is highly recommended.
Person-Centered Plan Steps
Pick a Planner
You choose someone who understands you and the Self-Determination Program. This person helps guide the process.
Pre-Planning
Pre-planning is when you take time to think about what you want before your person-centered planning meeting. You can talk with your planner about:
-Who you want at the meeting (your circle of support)
-When and where to have the meeting
-What goals or dreams you want to talk about
– Any supports or tools you need to communicate
– What is most important to you right now
It helps you feel ready and in control before the meeting starts.
Schedule the Meeting
The planner will set up a time to meet with you and the people you trust. This can be a party with a purpose or a series of discussions. This should be driven by you and how you feel most comfortable.
Create the Plan
The planner will create a draft plan. They will share it with you to make sure that it reflects your wants and needs. You should have an opportunity to make any changes you want. You determine when the plan is final.
Share your Plan
Share your plan with your service coordinator. This will help shape your IPP goals and services. It will help you develop your budget and spending plan.
What Happens at a PCP meeting?
- You talk about your strengths, goals, and needs.
- People you invite (your “circle of support”) share ideas to help you succeed.
- The meeting can be formal or casual—whatever works best for you.
- You decide who’s there and where it takes place.
What is a Circle of Support?
Your circle of support is made up of people you trust—family, friends, or professionals. They listen to you, support your choices, and help you reach your goals.
What to Expect from a Person-Centered Planner?
A good planner will:
- You talk about your strengths, goals, and needs.
- People you invite (your “circle of support”) share ideas to help you succeed.
- The meeting can be formal or casual—whatever works best for you.
- You decide who’s there and where it takes place.
Who Pays for my PCP?
PCP is a service paid for by the regional center. You can choose your own planner, and they do not need to be vendored with the regional center. Often, the person who provides this service is an Independent Facilitator (IF). A parent cannot be paid to create a plan for their minor child.
How do I Use My Plan?
Your Person-Centered Plan is the foundation of your Self-Determination Program. After your plan is finished, you can choose who you want to share it with. It is a living document and will change as you change!
- Give a copy to your service coordinator
- Use it to help guide your IPP
- Share it with your providers
- Use it to build your spending plan and budget
Your plan is your voice. Use it to lead your life your way.
Sample Planner
Here is a link to a workbook that is great for pre-planning!
Person-Centered Planning Guide: It’s My Choice
by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities
Complete Guide Training Video: Person-Centered Plan
Complete Guide Training Video description.
Video coming soon.