Developmental Services :: VBgov.com - City of Virginia Beach

Developmental Services

The Developmental Services division plans, develops, and implements services for Virginia Beach residents with intellectual disabilities and their families through the provision of person centered services designed to provide opportunities to individuals who have intellectual disabilities to become self-directing and contributing members of our community. We support families living with family member with intellectual disabilities; provide early intervention when developmental delays are identified in young children; and, promote the value of persons with intellectual disabilities living and working in the community.

Apply for Services

Services offered include, case management, employment, family support, residential, and infant programs. You may ask to speak with an Admissions Coordinator to discuss eligibility. If you, or the Admissions Coordinator, feel you may meet eligibility an Admissions Packet will be sent to you. If you do not wish to speak with an Admissions Coordinator but feel you or your family member meets requirements you may call (757) 385-0600 and ask for a packet to be sent to you.

Once the completed packet is returned, an appointment with Admissions will be scheduled. The admissions panel includes a Fee Clerk who will determine fees based on the documentation provided. This meeting is free-of-charge. The completed packet must include the following:

Psychological evaluation (must state a diagnosis of Mental Retardation or Intellectually Disabled showing age of onset prior to age 18). An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is not acceptable
Proof of Virginia Beach residency (bill, driver’s license, bank statement, credit card statement)
Health Insurance Card
Birth Certificate
Proof of income (if applying for a minor bring parent / guardian information)
Guardianship or Power of Attorney if applicable

To apply for services, please call (757) 385-0600.

Case Management

Case Management is a service provided to individuals with a primary diagnosis of intellectual disability and their families to link them with needed services and resources in order to assist with community living and development of the individual's maximum potential. A team approach is used to ensure effective service delivery. Please call (757) 385-0600 to speak to a member of the Intake Team.

Assessment and Service Planning

The Support Coordinator will conduct a comprehensive assessment and develop an individual support plan, as well as provide supportive counseling and resource development for each individual. The support coordinator will coordinate and monitor service planning and services and will assist the consumer to achieve his or her goals using a person-centered approach. Case management also provides assistance for families with emergency needs.

Linking and Coordinating Services

The Support Coordinator can assist individuals and families in linking to the following services:

Adult day support programs
Supportive counseling for individuals and families
Financial assistance through Social Security, Social Services or other Federal State, and Local agencies
Recreational Programs
Housing
Residential services
Respite Care, personal assistance services and/or skilled nursing
Vocational skills training and employment

Counseling and Support Groups

DS Case Management offers support groups for emotions management, family support, independent living skills, and a reading program.

Client Rights

As a client of the Behavioral Health & Developmental Services division of the Virginia Beach Department of Human Services, it is your right to:

Be treated with dignity and respect
Be told about your treatment
Have a say in your treatment
Speak to others in private
Have your complaints resolved
Say what you prefer
As questions and be told about your rights
Get help with your rights

If you have questions or need help, see the department contact person or the human rights advocate. Additional information is availble under "Related Information" on this page.

Local Program Contact

Office of Continuous Quality Improvement | 757-385-0642

Regional Human Rights Advocate

Reginald Daye | 757-253-7061

Regional Advocate, Region V

Office of Human Rights

4061 Ironbound Road

WIlliamsburg, VA 23188-2652

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