Supported Decision Making: An Alternative for Transition

This course explains an alternative to guardianship that supports people with disabilities in making their own decisions: Supported Decision-Making (SDM).

Supported Decision-Making is a process that allows individuals to make important life decisions with help from people they trust. It is designed to promote independence, self-determination, and confidence while ensuring individuals still receive the support they need.

• Participants will learn what Supported Decision-Making is, how it works, and how it differs from guardianship. The course explains how individuals can receive support without giving up their rights, and how SDM can be used in areas such as medical care, finances, education, work, and social life.
  
• The course also covers how to begin using Supported Decision-Making, including identifying areas where support is helpful, choosing trusted supporters, and understanding what support can look like in real-life situations.
  
• In addition to learning about the process, this course focuses on maintaining control, setting boundaries, and making informed decisions. Participants will learn how to use their voice, stay in charge of their choices, and adjust their support system as their needs change.

This self-paced course is designed for youth and young adults who want a clear and practical understanding of how to make decisions with support while maintaining independence.