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Lakes Area Consultation Services LLC
WELCOME
Consultation Services That Puts You First
What is a CFSS Consultation Services Provider?
A consultation services provider is a Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP) provider who helps people using Community First Services and Supports (CFSS).
What we do:
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Educate individuals about CFSS options so they can make informed choices.
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Assist with creating and reviewing service delivery plans.
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Offer ongoing support as needs change.
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Provide services in person or remotely.
Important to know:
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Everyone who uses CFSS must choose a consultation services provider.
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Providers must have a contract with the State of Minnesota.
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Consultation providers are separate from CFSS provider agencies and Financial Management Services (FMS) providers.

Meet The Team
Consultants
Office Manager
Andrew Malinowski
Andrew oversees daily operations and supports staff coordination at Lakes Area Consultation Services. With two years of experience in behavioral support, he brings a calm, solution-focused approach to leadership.
Fun Fact: When he’s not managing the office, Andrew is racing dirt tracks or spending time with family.

Consultation Expert
Gavin Crawford
Gavin specializes in person-centered support for individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health diagnoses. He brings a fresh, compassionate perspective to every client interaction.
Fun Fact: Gavin is family-oriented and a proud cat dad who believes in the power of patience (and purring).

Billing Coordinator
Alex Grattan
Alex handles all things billing, from invoicing to financial tracking, to keep operations running smoothly. Known for his attention to detail and reliability, he’s a key part of the team.
Fun Fact: Alex enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife, Hailey, and their daughter, Lyla.

Service Model Options
Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) offers two service delivery models: Agency Model and Budget Model, allowing individuals to choose the level of control and responsibility that fits their needs. Whether you prefer full support from an agency or the flexibility to manage your own care team, both models are designed to help you live more independently while receiving the assistance you need.
What is the Agency Model?
In the Agency Model of Community First Services and Supports (CFSS), a CFSS provider agency is the official employer of the support workers. The agency is responsible for recruiting, training, scheduling, and paying the workers, as well as handling all employer-related tasks such as taxes, insurance, and background checks. While participants or their representatives may help choose and schedule staff, they are not considered the employer. The agency ensures that all services follow the participant’s service delivery plan and meet state requirements. This model is ideal for people who prefer less administrative responsibility because the agency manages all employment tasks on their behalf.
What is the Budget Model?
In the Budget Model of CFSS, the participant or their representative is the employer of the support workers. They are responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, scheduling, and managing their workers. Participants also set pay rates (within state guidelines) and decide how to use their approved budget to meet their needs. A Financial Management Services (FMS) provider helps manage payroll, taxes, and reporting requirements, but the participant maintains control over who they hire and how their budget is spent. This model offers the most flexibility and independence, but also requires the participant to take on more employer-related responsibilities.
Why Choose Lakes Area Consultation Services?
Lakes Area Consultation Services LLC is dedicated
to providing personalized, self-directed care and
addressing the growing demand for our services,
ensuring timely support for all clients.

1 hr
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Referral Form
Contact Info
Phone
Address
218-454-2138
Fax
218-454-4435
1-844-363-2770