Empowering individuals, strengthening families, transforming communities.
We empower neurodivergent individuals and their families across all life stages through evidence-based programs, compassionate support, and community partnerships — fostering resilience, well-being, and lifelong growth.
Our mission
To empower neurodivergent individuals and their families across all life stages through evidence-based programs, compassionate support, and community partnerships — fostering resilience, well-being, and lifelong growth.
- Early Intervention
Developmental and behavioral screenings, short-term intervention, and parent coaching inside the critical early-intervention window — so no child loses the moment.
- Health & Wellness
A holistic program built across physical, mindset, and financial dimensions to restore balance, prevent burnout, and sustain caregivers.
- Legislative Advocacy
United Florida Coalition — a bipartisan, AI-enabled network connecting nonprofits and lawmakers to shape policies that favor inclusion and funding.
- Trainings & Workshops
Practical, evidence-based trainings for parents, caregivers, childcare providers, and educators — building confidence and competence across our network.
The need is real. The data is clear.
80%
of brain development happens by age 3 — making early detection essential.
50%
reduction in long-term costs when intervention starts early.
1,210
children and caregivers engaged through our education programs.
40+
partner organizations across Florida's 67 counties.
From the founder · featured story
“We carry the weight alone — until we don’t.” How Florida families are rewriting the caregiver story.
M. Lucia Barbeyto is a binational, bilingual behavior analyst, certified advocate, and Positive Behavior Support Specialist with 10+ years supporting neurodivergent individuals — and a proud mother of a son with autism level 2 and epilepsy. Self Learning Academy was born from her commitment to bridge the gap between knowledge and access for families like hers.
María Lucia Barbeyto, MS, BCBA — Founder & President
Meet more of our team
Three more of the practitioners and advocates who keep Self Learning Academy running, every day.
Mónica M. Carretero
Advocacy Coordinator
Mónica is a bilingual former attorney turned advocate. She is dedicated to fostering relationships with lawmakers and community stakeholders to build a more accessible and equitable future for the disability community.
Erik Silva
Mental Health Counselor
Erik Silva is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and the co-founder of The Mind Gym, Inc., a mental health and wellness center based in Miami, Florida.
Lucianai Leo
Registered Nurse
Lucy is a Florida-licensed Acupuncture Physician and Certified Autism Specialist based in South Florida. She specializes in providing holistic, integrated healthcare for individuals with autism, ADHD, and related conditions.
Every partnership builds a more inclusive Florida.
There's no single way to join. Choose the role that fits you, your family, or your organization.
- Strategic Partner
Organizations and nonprofits that share resources and co-create programs across Florida.
- Professional Volunteer
Therapists, coaches, and educators who donate expertise across our programs.
- Community Champion
Family advocates who carry our message and connect us to families who need our services.
- Funding Partner
Foundations and donors who invest in a sustainable, accessible model for inclusion.
Stay close to the work.
One thoughtful email a month — policy briefs, family stories, and ways to take action. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.