Self Direction

Empowering You to Make Your Own Decisions

Self Direction puts you in charge. Instead of fitting into a one-size-fits-all program, you have the opportunity to choose the supports, services, and experiences that work best for your life. Unity House partners with you and your family to create a personalized plan built around your needs, interests, goals, and future.

Self Direction offers much more than hiring your own direct support staff. You have a voice in choosing who supports you, how your services are delivered, and which organizations you want involved in your life. Through Unity House's co-employment model, we provide guidance and administrative support to help you manage your self-hired staff while maintaining control over your choices.

With Self Direction, there is greater flexibility to build a life that reflects who you are and what matters most to you. Whether your goals include becoming more independent, finding a job, learning new skills, developing friendships, exploring new interests, or becoming more involved in your community, Self Direction gives you the opportunity to make those goals a reality.

Who Can Choose Self-Direction?

If you’re eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver, you may be able to choose Self-Direction.

Self-Direction gives you the flexibility to adjust your plan as your goals and needs change. If you decide Self-Direction is no longer the right fit for you, you can return to a more traditional model of supports.

What Support is Available?

Depending on your approved budget and individual plan, you may choose from a variety of services and supports, including:

  • Self-Hired Staff: Recruit, hire, schedule, and supervise your own direct support professionals.
  • Community Habilitation: Receive individualized support while developing skills, exploring interests, and participating in your community.
  • Respite Services: Provide family caregivers with a break while ensuring you continue receiving the support you need.
  • Supported Employment: Explore employment opportunities, develop workplace skills, and work toward greater independence.
  • Community Classes and Activities: Participate in classes, recreational opportunities, and activities that reflect your personal interests and goals.
  • Goods and Services: Access approved items, equipment, and services that help you achieve your personal goals and increase independence.
  • Transportation and Other Supports: Access approved transportation and additional services that help you participate in your community and everyday activities.

Fiscal Intermediary

Unity House simplifies Self-Direction budget management by handling payment processing, managing payroll for self-hired staff, reviewing purchase and reimbursement requests, and maintaining required financial records. Our secure online system makes it easy for you and your support team to submit and track requests and documentation.

Support Broker

Your Support Broker helps develop and manage your Self-Direction Budget based on your goals and needs, ensuring it meets regulations and Medicaid requirements.

Care Manager

Your Care Manager oversees your life plan, monitors progress, and ensures your services and supports continue to meet your needs.

Self Direction Logan Corteux
Headshot of Danielle Fisk

Danielle Fisk
Self Direction Program Manager

315-253-6227 ext. 354

Email Danielle

How to Get Started

Getting started is simple:

  1. Attend an information session at your local Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO).

You can learn more and find your Self-Direction Liaison on OPWDD’s Self-Direction website at www.opwdd.ny.gov/selfdirection

  1. Build your Circle of Support —a team of people you choose. This might include family, close friends, a Care Manager, a Support Broker, and staff who know you best.
  2. Create your plan and budget. Together, your Circle of Support will help you figure out what you want out of life and how to make it happen.

With Self Direction, you’re in the driver’s seat.

For more information or a referral, please contact:

315-253-6227 ext. 354

selfdirection@unityhouse.org

 

Additional information is available through NYS OPWDD here.

Click here to view the NYS OPWDD brochure: My Life, My Choice: Self-Directed Services for People with Developmental Disabilities

Richard, Becky and mom Jackie