What Families Should Know About Self-Direction Workshops in NJ
Self-direction is one of the options available to individuals served by the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). It gives families more control over how services are delivered — but it also comes with more responsibility. Workshops and information sessions are a good starting point for understanding whether self-direction is the right fit for your family.
This post is for families and caregivers who are planning to attend a self-direction workshop or who recently attended one and want to make sense of what they heard.
What Self-Direction Actually Means
In simple terms, self-direction may give an individual and their planning team more flexibility in how some DDD-approved supports are arranged. The exact responsibilities, budget rules, vendor options, and service categories can vary, so families should confirm details with NJ DDD, their support coordinator, and any current official guidance before making decisions.
It is not for everyone, and that is fine. The NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities offers information about self-directed services on their self-direction page. A workshop is your chance to ask questions and decide if it makes sense for your situation.
We hosted a workshop at Lennon’s House and wrote about the experience in our post about what we learned at our self-direction workshop.
What to Bring to a Workshop
You do not need to bring a stack of paperwork, but a little preparation helps you get more out of the session.
Consider bringing:
– A notebook or phone for notes
– A list of questions you already have
– Your family member’s current service plan or a summary of their services (if you have one handy)
– Contact information for your current support coordinator
– An open mind — workshops are for learning, not committing
You do not need to make any decisions at the workshop itself. The goal is to gather enough information to have a conversation with your family afterward.
Questions Worth Asking
Workshops usually include a presentation followed by a question-and-answer period. Here are some questions that families often find helpful:
– What is the difference between self-direction and the traditional agency model in practical terms?
– What are the responsibilities of the family or guardian under self-direction?
– How does budgeting work, and who helps with the financial management?
– Can we try self-direction and switch back if it does not work for us?
– What kind of support is available during the transition?
– How long does the process take from start to finish?
– Are there families willing to share their experience?
Write down any answers that surprise you or that you want to discuss with other family members later.
What Not to Assume
Self-direction workshops are informational, but families sometimes walk away with misunderstandings. Here are a few things worth keeping in mind:
Do not assume self-direction means more money. The budget is based on the individual’s assessed needs, not on which model you choose. Self-direction gives you more flexibility in how the budget is used, not necessarily a larger one.
Do not assume you will be completely on your own. Financial management services (FMS) organizations help with payroll, taxes, and paperwork. Support coordinators remain involved. You are not expected to figure it all out alone.
Do not assume it is all or nothing. In some cases, families use self-direction for part of their services while keeping other supports through an agency. Ask the presenter about how this works in New Jersey specifically.
Do not assume attending the workshop commits you to anything. It does not. You are gathering information, and that is a responsible thing to do.
After the Workshop: Follow-Up Steps
The real work begins after the presentation ends. Here is how to move forward thoughtfully:
– Review your notes within a day or two while the information is fresh.
– Talk with your family member about what you learned, using language they understand.
– Reach out to your support coordinator with follow-up questions.
– Ask if there are families already using self-direction who would be willing to talk with you.
– If you are interested, ask about the formal application timeline and next steps.
– If you are not ready, that is perfectly fine. You can revisit self-direction later.
If you are still exploring what program options look like in general, our guide to finding the right day program in New Jersey may also be helpful.
Where to Find Workshops in Northern NJ
Self-direction workshops are offered by various organizations, including support coordination agencies, family advocacy groups, and sometimes individual providers like Lennon’s House. They are typically free and open to families.
To find upcoming sessions, you can:
– Ask your support coordinator
– Check the NJ DDD website for scheduled information sessions
– Follow local disability organizations on social media for event announcements
– Visit our blog and resources page for updates on events we host or attend
You can also learn more about Lennon’s House on our About Us page or contact us if you have questions about self-direction or anything else related to services for adults with disabilities in Morris County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be enrolled in DDD services to attend a workshop?
Most workshops are open to anyone interested, including families who are still on the waitlist or exploring options. Check with the hosting organization to confirm, but you generally do not need to be actively receiving services to attend.
Can my family member attend the workshop with me?
Yes, and in many cases it is encouraged. Self-direction is about the individual having more control, so their participation in the learning process matters. Some workshops are designed with accessibility in mind, but ask ahead of time about accommodations if needed.
What if I attend a workshop and decide self-direction is not for us?
That is a perfectly valid outcome. The purpose of a workshop is to give you enough information to make an informed decision. Many families attend and decide to stay with their current service model, and that is completely fine.
How is self-direction different from hiring a private caregiver?
Self-direction through DDD can involve formal oversight, planning rules, and financial-management processes. It is different from casually hiring private help, but families should confirm the current requirements, available supports, and responsibilities with DDD and their support coordinator.
Is self-direction available for all DDD services?
Not every support or service category is available through self-direction, and terminology can change. Ask the workshop presenter, DDD, and your support coordinator which current options may apply to your family member.