The people behind every program.
A multidisciplinary team of practitioners, parents, and advocates — each bringing two things to the table: technical expertise and lived experience.
The people behind every program.
FounderMaría Lucia Barbeyto, MS, BCBA
Founder & CEO
M. Lucia Barbeyto is a binational, bilingual behavior analyst, certified advocate, and Positive Behavior Support Specialist with 10+ years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals — and a proud mother of a son with autism level 2 and epilepsy. With a background in business, project management, and leadership across multiple industries, Lucia spent years navigating complex systems and driving organizational success. Self Learning Academy was created to bridge the gap between knowledge and access — empowering families and professionals with practical, evidence-based tools to support children in meaningful, lasting ways.
Mónica Cruz
Vice-President
Mónica is a bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist and Certified Autism Specialist. For over two decades, she has been passionate about inclusion, fostering authentic relationships between children, their families, and their communities.
Javier Hernández
IT Manager
Javier brings nearly 20 years of experience in emerging technologies, with leadership roles and entrepreneurial ventures. As the father of a son with an intellectual disability, his purpose is deeply personal.
Carla Mercé
Family Resource Specialist
Carla served over 9 years as a doula in the United States Army and holds a Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies focused on Business and Behavioral Sciences. She is the proud mother of a young adult with autism and has advocated for veterans and people with disabilities for over two decades.
Dr. Pedro Barbero
Wellness Program Manager
Pedro Barbero is a family physician with 25 years of clinical experience in Spain and a certified Zen coach and instructor. He works to advance integrative medicine that nurtures complete human development and lasting well-being.
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.