The following are services and supports provided by Westside Regional Center (WRC). Individuals may be eligible for services based upon need related to the nature of the qualifying developmental disability as identified and agreed to by the interdisciplinary planning team. This is not a complete listing. Other needs identified by assessment may identify other services. Services must be requested through the Individual Program Plan (IPP) process. Please contact your service coordinator to discuss access to services.

Understanding the Diagnosis: A Guide for Families

Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. These conditions begin during the developmental period, may impact day-to-day functioning, and usually last throughout a person’s lifetime.

Receiving a diagnosis of a developmental disability comes with a lot of information, paperwork, appointments, changes, and feelings. You may have many questions regarding developmental disabilities. As you look for answers, you will encounter information about the various conditions, their causes, and possible treatments. All of this information may make it challenging to organize options and begin to choose a treatment plan that best fits your family.

It is natural to want to identify the single root cause of the diagnosis. Many families may battle with feelings of guilt and/or shame. Please understand that these diagnoses are complex and there may not be a single factor that has been identified as the cause. Know that families and caregivers can be strong advocates and have high expectations of a person/family member with the disability.

Westside Regional Center anticipates supporting you and your family as you proceed from the initial diagnosis to ongoing support services. You are not alone in this process. For additional information about diagnosis, you may contact your service coordinator, WRC’s Staff Psychologist, Kaely Shilakes, Psy.D at 310-258-4157, or click on the following documents below:

Westside Family Resource & Empowerment Center

The Westside Family Resource and Empowerment Center (WFREC) is housed within the same building and works in collaboration with the Westside Regional Center, local school districts, and community-based organizations that provide supports and services to children and their families. The WFREC is staffed by experienced parents and family members who are qualified to provide emotional, technical, and informational support to families who have an infant, child, or young adult with a disability, chronic illness, or other health care need.

They offer a variety of support groups where parents have the opportunity to meet and learn from other parents. These groups are designed to provide information, resources, community, and hope. When families share common concerns and experiences, the support can be uniquely meaningful. They also sponsor training and workshops to help families learn how to understand and navigate the often-times complex systems of care in California. Watch their welcome video to learn more.

For more information, please call (310) 258-4063 or visit www.wfrec.org.

Self-Advocacy Groups

Self-advocacy groups strive to empower individuals to become active and influential members of their communities, as well as agents of change concerning their rights and wishes. At self-advocacy meetings, personal rights are discussed and individuals have an opportunity to share their experiences and concerns. Group members learn from each other and gain confidence to stand up for themselves. There are several active self-advocacy groups in the WRC area. Meetings offer a great opportunity for members to make new friends and maintain lasting friendships. Attendance at self-advocacy meetings is encouraged for all individuals served by WRC. Click here for more information. 

PMLCA Healthy Lifestyle Change Program

The Healthy Lifestyle Change program is a service for Peer Mentor Lifestyle Coach Agency. The Healthy Lifestyle Change Program is a peer mentoring venture which was established to identify and support adults with disabilities who are at risk for or who have a diagnosis of Type II diabetes as well as supporting people who wish to develop a more healthful lifestyle. The groups meet at the Westside Regional Center located in Culver City. Peer Mentors, fitness and nutrition facilitators support people to incorporate exercise and good nutrition education into their daily routines.

Networking and Life Skills Group

• Who comes to this fun group? Anyone who wants to be social and have fun!
• May I bring a friend? Of course! Bring a friend and you will also make friends at the group.
• Is there food? YES! We have tasty refreshments.
• How much does it cost to go? It’s FREE! That’s right, FREE!
• What if I’m looking for a roommate? Attend a “Networking” meeting and one of the peer mentors can assist you.

Education Support Services (ESS)

If your child is found eligible for services under the Lanterman Act and you need educational support assistance, please contact the Education Support Services (ESS) unit. The ESS staff provide assistance to clients of Westside Regional Center who are school-age (3 to 22) and pursuing a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in their community. ESS staff can review IEP documents and assessment reports, attend IEP meetings, and/or observe the student in the school setting. You may contact the ESS staff directly or request a referral through your service coordinator.

Download the flyer: English, Spanish

Informed Education Partners (IEP) Support Group – Online

Both the ESS staff and WFREC staff facilitate a monthly bilingual (English, Spanish) support group called the “Informed Education Partners” on the first Thursday of the month from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Click here to register or call the WFREC at (310) 258-4063 for more information.

Download the flyer: English, Spanish

Transitioning From High School to Community Life

This section is intended for High School students in the Special Education program, their families, and the professionals that support them. The objective is to prepare students for life after high school: college, employment, living independently, changes in healthcare, and more.

Trainings, Events, and Conferences: At Westside

Westside Regional Center (WRC) sponsors training, conferences, workshops, and events for parents, individuals we serve, service providers, and other professionals within our community. Visit our calendar of events for more information.

Trainings and Conferences: In the Community

WRC encourages individuals with disabilities and family members to be empowered and informed through participation in trainings and conferences offered within the special needs community.

WRC may fund for tuition or conference registration fees up to a maximum of $300 for trainings and/or conferences per year. For adults receiving WRC services, funding may include lodging and/or transportation costs when authorized. Funding for parents or caregivers does not cover the cost of lodging or transportation. Check with your service coordinator or the WFREC to inquire about training and conference opportunities.