What is Regional Center

What is The Regional Center?
California's 21 Regional Centers, funded by the Department of Developmental Services, each cover a specific geographical area.
They provide services to support people with developmental delays, disabilities and medically complex needs. They focus on daily living, life skills, personal growth, and social integration.
Unlike Medi-Cal, which primarily covers healthcare services (like doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions), Regional Centers address broader support needs that help individuals thrive in their daily lives.
Who does the Regional Center cover?
Anyone with a Developmental Disability or Complex Medical Issue that originated before age 18, is expected to continue indefinitely, and significantly limits functioning in areas like self-care, communication, learning, mobility, self-direction or independent living. Eligibility is not dependent on financial status.
Click below to find out which Regional Center covers you: 
Department of Developmental Services
Regional Center Lookup
California has 21 regional centers with more than 40 offices located throughout the state. 

Enter your residential address to find out which Regional Center services your area.
Potential Services Provided by Regional Centers
Assessment & diagnosis
Identifies developmental disabilities and determines eligibility for support services.
Early Intervention 
Early Start programs for infants and toddlers with developmental delays.
Behavioral Support
Therapies, like ABA, and parent training in therapeutic techniques.
Therapies
Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Speech Therapy to improve functioning.
Medical Services
Specialized care and treatments not covered by traditional insurance plans.
Family Support
Respite care, parent training, support groups, and counseling to help manage challenges.
Training & Skills 
Adaptive skills, mobility training, and community integration support for independence.
Educational Support
Assistance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and school integration.
Day Care Assistance
Coverage for specialized day care needs, aides, and costs beyond typical expenses.
Vocational Training
Job coaching, skill-building, and support for older kids transitioning to the work.
Social Skills Programs
Programs and activities to develop social skills and encourage community participation.
Transportation
Help with travel to therapies, programs, or medical appointments.
Home Adaptations
Modifications to increase accessibility, like ramps or vehicle lifts.
Equipment & Devices
Communication aids, mobility devices, and durable medical equipment.
Case Management
Service coordination for resources and to create a personalized care plan.
Legal Advocacy
Protects legal, civil, and service rights, ensuring access to support and protection.
What is the Regional Center's Self-Determination Program (SDP)?
Program Overview
The Self-Determination Program gives individuals with disabilities more control over their services and how their budget is spent. It is designed to foster independence and tailored care. You need to work with an Independent Facilitator to enroll, navigate the process and maximize your benefits.
Person-Centered Plan
The Regional Center administers the SDP to allow clients to create a person-centered plan based on their unique needs. They support the transition to the program and assist with managing the budget and services.
Eligibility for Medically Complex Individuals
As long as the individual is a client of the Regional Center and meets the program's criteria, they can participate, even without a developmental disability.