Informed Decision Making and the Power of Choice:  Supporting Individuals in Acquiring a Rewarding Life Experience

Thursday, November 3, 10:40 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

View the session here.

Notes from session:

Informed Decision Making and the Power of Choice PowerPoint here.

Lost at Sea Scenario and Answer Sheet here.

Presenter: Jason Hopper, Manager of Staff Development and Training, The Arc Rockland

In this seminar we will go in-depth about how to help an individual live an independent lifestyle when faced with the challenges of having lived a life directed by parents/guardians. The following topics will be discussed:

• What does it feel like to be placed in an unfamiliar situation and having to make a decision with limited knowledge of the situation?
• Learned helplessness and other mental barriers that prevent individuals from realizing their full potential.
• Scenarios where individuals have to make a choice regarding a difficult decision and how support providers need to construct all of the outcomes (pros and cons) before the individual chooses the best outcome for themselves.
• The Dignity of Risk - Every decision we each make has an element of risk. Unless there is imminent harm, an individual has the right to make a decision and take a risk, even if  -that decision can lead to a negative outcome. We all learn from mistakes, and individuals should have the right to learn as well.

About Jason Hopper:

Jason Hopper is the Manager of Staff Development and Training with The Arc Rockland.  He was initially hired as a Residence Manager for a newly developed group home working with five wonderful individuals back in 2005.  He eventually transferred to the Training Department in 2015.  There, he developed and implemented various management/supervisory/clinical training programs for all staff to effectively engage the individuals in person-centered supports.  Mr. Hopper is a certified SCIP Instructor-Trainer, CPR Instructor, Justice Center Investigator, and the proprietor of Hopper Trainings, LLC.  He is known for his high-energy, enthusiastic discussions about the prospects for the individuals in the industry.  Freedoms that were not thought possible forty years ago are attainable and Jason is passionate about getting the word out that individuals are ready to change the world for the better.  Some of his most requested trainings are SCIP, Frontline Supervisor, Hostile Intruder/Active Shooter, Crisis Intervention for Administrators, Time Management, and Informed Decision Making.