Including self-advocates in training is critical to ensure that the perspective of the person receiving services is heard.  Most often, self-advocates have years of experience, both good and bad, and can direct us to what is most important to them. In order to do this in a meaningful way, self-advocates, just as all speakers, need time to prepare for presentations. Here are some checklists, based on suggestions made by self-advocates, for how to include self-advocates as trainers. These are general considerations – self-advocates should be consulted about what assistance or help they want.