Person-Centered Thinking and Planning

Person-centered thinking begins with the person who is being supported. It is a foundational outlook that life choices are based on, including people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It recognizes that every person is an expert on their own life and person-centered thinking respects that expertise. It should be a balance of “what is important to” (the person’s likes and interests, hopes and dreams, relationships) and “what is important for” (health and safety support needs), which together allow a person to have a full life in their community (or communities) of choice. Person-centered thinking gives each person positive control over their relationships, cultural and personal routines, environment, well-being and allows them to live free of fear.

CLEP team members use a One Page Profile as a first tool when meeting with a person and their family. This Profile can be used to introduce someone to a new support staff member, to a provider agency, to day program staff, or to a medical professional. Please contact CLEP to learn more about the One Page Profile.