Service Planning is the process described in the Lanterman Act, which includes gathering information and conducting assessments about the individual with developmental disabilities to identify services and supports for the Individual Program Plan (IPP)/Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP).  Using person centered strategies, the team identifies the individual’s life goals, capabilities, strengths, preferences, barriers and challenges while taking into consideration the person’s interests, hopes, dreams, likes, dislikes, as it relates to community, living, employment, leisure etc.

It is the intent of the legislature to ensure that the IPP/IFSP and provision of services and supports is centered on the individual and the family and takes into account the needs and preferences of the individual and the family where appropriate, as well as promoting community integration, independent, productive & normal lives and stable & healthy environments (W&I 4646).