Caring for a loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability is both deeply rewarding and uniquely challenging. Families often play a lifelong role in providing care, advocacy, and emotional support — but they also need assistance themselves. That’s where family support services by OPWDD come in. These programs, designed to help families manage daily responsibilities and access vital resources, are a cornerstone of New York’s disability support system.
At Gateway Counseling Center, these services take on an even deeper meaning. As a trusted OPWDD provider, Gateway partners with families to deliver compassionate, personalized, and effective support that strengthens relationships, builds resilience, and fosters hope.
What Are Family Support Services by OPWDD?
Family Support Services (FSS) by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) are programs specifically designed to assist families who care for individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities at home. The primary goal is to reduce stress, enhance stability, and improve the quality of life for both the individual and their loved ones.
These services recognize that families are the foundation of care — and that they too need emotional, educational, and practical support to continue providing effective assistance. The programs typically include:
- Emotional support, such as counseling and peer connection, helping families cope with the demands of caregiving.
- Educational support, including workshops and training on behavioral management, communication techniques, and navigating state resources.
- Practical assistance, offering help with respite care, financial planning, and coordination of medical or therapeutic services.
In essence, Family Support Services by OPWDD empower families to maintain balance, prevent burnout, and ensure that their loved ones can thrive in a safe, nurturing environment.
Gateway Counseling Center’s Partnership with OPWDD
Gateway Counseling Center (GCC) has long been a committed partner within the OPWDD network, delivering family-centered programs across New York. By aligning with OPWDD’s mission, Gateway ensures that every service meets the highest standards of care, accessibility, and person-centered planning.
As a certified provider, Gateway Counseling Center helps families navigate the often complex OPWDD system, assisting with eligibility, applications, and individualized service coordination. But beyond administrative guidance, GCC focuses on what truly matters — helping families feel supported, understood, and empowered every step of the way.
Gateway’s team works directly with OPWDD to ensure that families have access to flexible, responsive, and inclusive care. Whether a family is seeking short-term relief, emotional guidance, or long-term planning support, Gateway is there to deliver the right resources at the right time.
This partnership represents more than compliance — it represents collaboration. GCC and OPWDD share a unified vision: to empower families so they can provide the best possible life for their loved ones with developmental disabilities.
Programs Designed to Support Families
Gateway Counseling Center offers a range of family support programs that address emotional, educational, and practical needs. Each program is designed with compassion and flexibility, recognizing that no two families face the same challenges.
- Family Counseling and Emotional Support
Professional counselors and therapists help families navigate the emotional complexities of caregiving. Through individual or group sessions, parents and siblings can discuss their experiences, learn coping strategies, and strengthen communication within the family unit.
- Training and Educational Workshops
Gateway offers workshops covering topics such as behavioral management, stress reduction, and understanding developmental disabilities. These sessions equip families with tools to improve daily care and communication while promoting personal well-being.
- Respite Care
Caring for a loved one can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Gateway’s respite care services provide families with short-term relief by offering professional care for their loved ones in a safe, supportive environment. This allows caregivers to rest, recharge, or attend to personal needs without worry.
- Service Coordination and Advocacy
Navigating state programs, medical systems, and funding opportunities can be overwhelming. Gateway’s coordinators assist families in managing these processes, ensuring that each individual receives all the benefits and resources available through OPWDD and related agencies.
These programs combine to create a network of care that supports the entire family, helping them not only to cope — but to flourish.
Empowering Families Through Knowledge and Connection
Gateway Counseling Center believes that knowledge is one of the most powerful forms of empowerment. Families who understand their rights, resources, and options are better equipped to make informed decisions and advocate for their loved ones.
Through family workshops and educational programs, GCC provides access to up-to-date information on disability services, OPWDD policies, and community support networks. These sessions are interactive, encouraging families to share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
Gateway also facilitates peer support networks, connecting families who face similar challenges. These groups offer emotional solidarity, reduce isolation, and build a sense of shared strength — reminding caregivers that they are not alone in their journey.
By focusing on education and connection, GCC turns challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience. Families emerge stronger, more confident, and better prepared to support their loved ones.
How to Access Gateway’s Family Support Services
Getting started with Gateway Counseling Center is simple — and it begins with a conversation. Families can reach out to learn more about available programs, eligibility criteria, and how to begin receiving services under the OPWDD framework.
The compassionate team at Gateway will guide you step-by-step through the process, from application to enrollment. Whether you need help managing daily routines, exploring respite options, or accessing specialized training, Gateway will create a personalized plan that meets your family’s unique needs.
To explore how family support services by OPWDD can benefit your loved ones and to discover the full range of Gateway programs, visit Gateway Counseling Center.
At Gateway Counseling Center, every service is built around one central belief: when families are supported, individuals with disabilities thrive. Through compassionate care, practical assistance, and a community of understanding, Gateway helps families grow stronger — together.
