Developmental Services: Information for Families

At Hope Network, we believe that all people deserve the freedom to decide how to live their lives.  For individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as their family and friends, a full system of services is available to help support a path toward independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Developmental Disability?
I am interested in services for myself or a loved one, where do I begin?
What are Community Mental Health Services?
What can I expect from my local Community Mental Health Provider?

Additional Resources

Community Resources (Advocacy, Housing, Insurance, etc.)
Self-determination and Person-centered Planning
Planning for the Future
Directory of Services
Glossary of Terms

 


 

What is a developmental disability?

A developmental disability, as defined by the state of Michigan and federal law, is a severe, chronic disability:

• Attributable to a mental or physical impairment, or a combination of such impairments; 
• Manifested before the person is age 22;  
• Likely to continue indefinitely;
• Resulting in substantial functional limitations in three or more of these major life activities: self-care, receptive and expressive language, learning, mobility, self-direction, capacity for independent living, and economic self-sufficiency.

 

Where do I begin?

If you do receive Medicaid, contact your local Community Mental Health Access Center to identify the services that you are eligible for. In order to receive services from Hope Network, you must first go through your local Community Mental Health (CMH)Access Center. For Kent County residents, your local CMH authority is network180. All others, please click here to find out about your local access center.

If you do not receive Medicaid and would like to apply, visit the Department of Community Health for an application.  Although CMH authorities provide services to Medicaid enrolled citizens, individuals without insurance may be eligible for some services.

If you have any questions about the admission process, please don't hesitate to Ask Jenny.
 
 
 

What are Community Mental Health Services?

Community mental health services support and treat individuals with disabilities in a variety of community settings. Community services provided by your local Community Mental Health provider include primary care medical services, hospitalization, day programming, housing, community mental health centers, self-help groups, and various support services. CMH's work with a number of local agencies to ensure that all services are available to those in need.

 
 

What can I expect from my Community Mental Health Provider?

A simple call to your local CMH Access Center will connect you to a staff member that a will work with you to determine the most appropriate services available in your area. They will then decide if a face-to-face assessment would be most helpful, or if you can be referred directly to a service providing agency, such as Hope Network. 

Community Mental Health providers understand the importance of individualized services, and use principles of self-determination while assisting you in assembling a service plan the best fits your needs.