Adult Services: Obtaining Services
Is your family member eligible for services?
The first point of entry is the Department of Mental Health, Retardation and Hospitals (MHRH).
Contact the:
Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
Simpson Hall
6 Harrington Rd.
Cranston, RI 02920
Tel: (401) 462-3421
or visit the MHRH website at www.mhrh.ri.gov to find out about the available services and the steps to securing those services. Upon determination of service needs you are encouraged to research the list of Service Providers (provider) to determine which provider is best suited to support your family member.
What is a Service Provider?
A service provider is an agency or organization that provides supports and services to individuals with developmental disabilities. CranstonArc is a service provider under the Department of Mental Health, Retardation and Hospitals.
How to Receive Services from CranstonArc?
Your division social worker will make a formal referral to CranstonArc for the “Referral Intake Process.”
What is the Referral Intake Process?
The Intake Referral Process begins with CranstonArc reviewing the referral packet. Following a review of the referral packet, if the agency and the family are in agreement to move forward to the next step, a meeting is scheduled to introduce CranstonArc’s services and supports, determine the areas of interests and put together the most appropriate program, including clinical and vocational supports.
The information received from the Referral Intake Process is compiled and submitted to the Division of Developmental Disabilities for review and approval. Upon approval, a subsequent follow-up meeting is scheduled.
Who Attends the Follow Up Meeting?
The follow up meeting is typically attended by
- Family members or individuals
- Representative from the Division – typically the social worker
- Members of the CranstonArc team
- If a referral from another agency or special education program, the team members from those programs
What is the Follow-Up Meeting Agenda?
- Designing a Transition Plan (if coming from another agency)
- Transportation Arrangements
- Temporary personal support system during the adjustment period
The First 30 Days – What to expect?
The first 30 days is a real transition period where a good amount of time is spent “getting acquainted” and having an opportunity to try a variety of options. During this getting acquainted period we will develop a long-term plan based on:
- What you want to do?
- Where you want to do it?
- And, with whom?
Goals for the coming year will be outlined and reviewed with the social worker, family members, representatives from the Division of Developmental Disabilities, and members of the clinical team.