Once you become a client, we evaluate the most pressing issues, and gather evaluations, school reports, etc. and determine which additional documentation and assessments are needed. We work closely with private and public sector organizations that are fundamental to creating solutions and always keep the families informed and in their position as decision makers. Meetings can be in person or by Zoom or phone and will change in frequency depending on where we are in the process.
Our clients range from those who are just starting to document disability status to those well established in a life with supported housing, employment, and recreational activities, but need some adjustments. We help clients envision and plan ahead for their evolving situations and needs. Depending on the situation, our goals are sometimes concluded rapidly, while other times they happen incrementally over many years. We work closely with the families, meet them, and, if they are in crisis, step up immediately.
Some of the specific tasks we perform include:
- Preparing packages for government service agencies
- Selecting a Care Coordination Organization
- Reaching out to housing agencies
- Following up on applications
- Finding additional expertise for specific problems
- Preparing and reviewing Self Direction budgets
- Facilitating dialogue with OPWDD
- Apply for Social Security and other government benefits
- Visiting potential homes
- Preparing for transitions
- Providing professional resources
- Identifying appropriate recreational and work programs
We try to set reasonable expectations both from us as advisors as well as from the service providers and government agencies as there are often delays and problems. One of our most important roles is in expediting and strongly advocating for your family’s needs.
If, over time, the client wishes to become more active in completing the necessary tasks, we willingly reduce our advisory role. Our focus is to address the problems we have all identified and then be available as needed. At all times we want what is best for the individual and family.
We work with a contract, respect confidentiality, and request waivers for dialogue with outside parties. Fees arrangements are discussed privately. While we work to achieve the goals we have agreed upon with our clients, we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. We advise our clients based on experience and expertise and work with them to create an overall situation that is appropriate where the individual can make progress toward their potential. Our contracts are not based on specific results but are ongoing consulting agreements which envision a collaborative relationship with clients. They can be terminated at any time.
While we are not attorneys who providing legal advice, nor accountants who provide financial advice, we are willing to work closely with our clients’ financial and legal advisors as requested.