Self Determination/Self Directed Services is guided by the vision that people with disabilities will determine their own futures, with appropriate assistance from families and friends. There are five principles that serve as the philosophical foundation

• "Freedom to develop a personal life plan: the ability for individuals with freely chosen family and/or friends to plan a life with necessary support rather than purchase a program;
• Authority to control a targeted sum of resources: The ability for a person with a disability (with a social support network or circle if needed) to control a certain sum of dollar in order to purchase these supports;
• Support to obtain personal goals: The arranging of resources and personnel (both formal and informal) that will assist an individual with a disability to live a life in the community rich in community association and contribution;
• Responsibility for contributing to one's community and using public dollars wisely: The acceptance of a valued role in a person's community through competitive employment, organizational affiliations, spiritual development and general caring for others in the community, as well as accountability for spending public dollars in ways that are life-enhancing for persons with disabilities.

• Confirmation - to recognize the importance of leadership of self-advocates in the Self-Directed Services program