I'm a strong advocate for Supported Decision Making, a legal movement that champions individual autonomy. As an expert Advocate in the Decision-Making Process, I believe in providing clients with the best information to make informed decisions and support their needs across various aspects of life, be it medicine, law, education, housing, or custody.
Supported Decision Making acknowledges the client as the foremost expert on their own life. They choose who they trust to help them make decisions, and we respect their choices, even if we don't agree, as long as they aren't harming themselves or others or breaking laws. This contrasts with outdated models where individuals with disabilities were often seen as incapable, and decisions were made for them.
I highly recommend Jonathan Martini's lecture and four-part video series on Supported Decision Making by UC Davis Minds Institute. Martini, a lawyer, argues for our fundamental right to choose and against Guardianship and Conservatorship. The MINDS Institute channel also has extensive resources on Human Services, including Autism, ADHD, and Special Needs Planning. Watch the first part here:
This principle of choice applies broadly. Regardless of differing opinions on specific treatments, individuals have the right to choose what's best for them, unless that right has been legally taken away. Our role is to affirm their autonomy and self-determination.
In my work, I've supported refugees, domestic violence survivors, and special needs adults, primarily online. I provide information and technology support, which is crucial for safety and wellbeing in the digital age. I've learned to yield my ego, listen to clients, and meet them where they are, treating them as experts in their own lives.
When faced with difficult situations, like a client using cannabis in a state where it's illegal, the focus remains on supporting their decision-making. Unless there's evidence of harm, abuse, or exploitation, it's not our place to force abstinence. Decades of data show that this approach is ineffective. Interventions only work when the individual is a willing participant.
As an IT Helpdesk worker, I know the importance of empowering clients to solve their own problems. This principle extends to all areas of advocacy. We provide information and support, but the ultimate decision rests with the individual.
In harm reduction, agencies work with clients who use illicit drugs daily. They are not obligated to report them. We prioritize safety, screening for factors that contribute to addiction. Forcing abstinence can alienate individuals and push them further into addiction.
Choice is paramount. Our job is to help people make informed, supported decisions for themselves. https://www.npr.org/2021/06/17/1006495476/after-50-years-of-the-war-on-drugs-what-good-is-it-doing-for-us Supported Decision Making: A Fundamental Human Right The traditional model of decision-making for individuals with disabilities often positions them as incapable and needing others to decide for them. This outdated approach, rooted in a guardianship or conservatorship model, has perpetuated harmful stereotypes and denied individuals their fundamental right to autonomy. Supported Decision Making (SDM) offers a transformative alternative. It recognizes that every person, regardless of disability, is the foremost expert on their own life. SDM empowers individuals to make their own choices, with the assistance of trusted supporters who offer guidance and help them understand the implications of their decisions. Why is Supported Decision Making Important? It's a human right: The right to make decisions about one's life is inherent to all individuals. SDM upholds this right, promoting self-determination and dignity. It challenges stereotypes: SDM counters the harmful notion that individuals with disabilities are incapable of making choices. It recognizes their agency and capacity to contribute meaningfully to their lives. It fosters independence: By providing support rather than taking over, SDM encourages individuals to develop their decision-making skills and become more self-reliant. How Does Supported Decision Making Work? SDM involves a collaborative process where the individual identifies trusted supporters who can: Provide information: Supporters help the individual gather and understand relevant information about their choices. Explore options: Supporters assist in exploring different options and potential outcomes. Communicate preferences: Supporters help the individual express their preferences and decisions clearly. Access resources: Supporters connect the individual with resources and services that can support their choices. The Role of Professionals As professionals in the human services field, it's our duty to champion Supported Decision Making. We must affirm our clients' autonomy and self-determination, working to dismantle the outdated guardianship system that often strips individuals of their rights. Learn More I highly recommend the lecture and four-part video series on Supported Decision Making by UC Davis Minds Institute. Jonathan Martini, a lawyer and compelling speaker, argues passionately for our fundamental right to choose and presents evidence supporting the shift from guardianship to SDM. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8Na88Wz90I[/embed] Let's embrace Supported Decision Making and empower individuals to live self-directed lives.
Supported Decision Making: A Fundamental Human Right
The traditional model of decision-making for individuals with disabilities often positions them as incapable and needing others to decide for them. This outdated approach, rooted in a guardianship or conservatorship model, has perpetuated harmful stereotypes and denied individuals their fundamental right to autonomy. Supported Decision Making (SDM) offers a transformative alternative. It recognizes that every person, regardless of disability, is the foremost expert on their own life. SDM empowers individuals to make their own choices, with the assistance of trusted supporters who offer guidance and help them understand the implications of their decisions.Why is Supported Decision Making Important?
- It’s a human right: The right to make decisions about one’s life is inherent to all individuals. SDM upholds this right, promoting self-determination and dignity.
- It challenges stereotypes: SDM counters the harmful notion that individuals with disabilities are incapable of making choices. It recognizes their agency and capacity to contribute meaningfully to their lives.
- It fosters independence: By providing support rather than taking over, SDM encourages individuals to develop their decision-making skills and become more self-reliant.
How Does Supported Decision Making Work?
SDM involves a collaborative process where the individual identifies trusted supporters who can:- Provide information: Supporters help the individual gather and understand relevant information about their choices.
- Explore options: Supporters assist in exploring different options and potential outcomes.
- Communicate preferences: Supporters help the individual express their preferences and decisions clearly.
- Access resources: Supporters connect the individual with resources and services that can support their choices.
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