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About Us

At Empowering Consulting Group, we believe every learner deserves a path designed specifically for them. We started this group because we saw firsthand how difficult it was for families to bridge the gap between their big dreams for their children and the complexities of the California Self‑Determination Program.


To make that path possible, we serve as the operational engine behind specialized instruction. We manage the billing, FMS compliance, and administrative logistics required in the Self‑Determination Program (SDP), so families don’t have to navigate that burden alone.


By taking the stress of compliance and provider procurement off your shoulders, we create the stable foundation that allows you to focus on what matters most: celebrating your student’s milestones and watching their growth unfold.

Bridging the SDP Gap

Empowering Consulting Group (ECG) was founded to simplify the complexities of the California Self-Determination Program (SDP). We believe that true self-determination requires a robust administrative foundation. Our mission is to provide the fiscal oversight and professional coordination necessary to turn a client’s Individual Program Plan (IPP) into a reality. By bridging the gap between independent specialized expertise and state-mandated compliance, we allow families to focus on growth while we handle the framework.

Self-Determination Program (SDP) Expertise

As a specialized agency operating within the California Regional Center system, we understand that SDP budgets require precise management. We serve as a 'Qualified Provider' layer, ensuring that every service authorized in your Spending Plan is executed by vetted professionals. We work directly with all 21 Regional Centers and major Financial Management Services (FMS), including Sentinel, Aveanna, and Acumen, to ensure seamless fund utilization and program integrity.

Customer Relations Management for Success

Transparency is the cornerstone of our operations. To meet the rigorous auditing standards of the SDP, we utilize a centralized, secure management portal through Teachworks. This integration allows for:


  • Real-Time Documentation: Every session is logged with detailed progress notes that align with IPP/IEP goals.
  • Audit-Ready Reporting: Families and FMS coordinators can verify service delivery with a clear digital paper trail.
  • Secure Scheduling: Centralized management of session times and provider rotations to ensure continuity of care."

Navigating the billing cycles of an FMS can be daunting for independent providers and families alike. ECG streamlines this through Package Billing & Fiscal Stewardship. We consolidate the administrative tasks of invoicing and documentation into a single agency-managed flow.


  • Monthly Advance Invoices: We handle the submission of all billing to your FMS in accordance with the 30-day billing cycles.
  • Standardized Rates: Our agency ensures that all professional fees are consistent with the authorized rates in your SDP Spending Plan, preventing budget overages and ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability for your services."

The ECG Advantage

Feature
Direct Hire (DIY)
With ECG
FMS Billing
Parent must handle all invoices
ECG handles all FMS submittals
Documentation
Paper logs, easily lost
Teachworks Portal + Docs
Audit Defense
High risk if notes are missing
Automated audit-compliant logs
Provider Vetting
Parent must check credentials
ECG credentials all network providers
Payment Security
Parent manages payroll tax/1099s
ECG manages all tax & fiscal filings