ABOUT

Welcome to Skills for Life Community!
Hi, I’m Adriane Mota — Founder, Trainer, and Advocate.

My journey in human services began in 2007 when I started providing in-home support for a young boy on the autism spectrum. While I had previous experience as a swim coach, lifeguard, and babysitter, this was my first real introduction to caring for others in a meaningful and intentional way—especially within the neurodiverse community. I had no idea at the time, but that experience would change the entire course of my career.

From 2008 to 2023, I worked with a nonprofit in Los Angeles, CA, at their day programs and art studios for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I started as an Art Instructor, then became a Program Supervisor, and later served as Program Director from 2016 to 2023. In that role, I oversaw five art studio day programs, supported over 200 artists, and led a team of 45 staff members. I also had the privilege of collaborating with five of our local regional centers: Harbor, Westside, South Central, F.D. Lanterman, and Eastern Los Angeles.

In 2020, I began the process to become a certified Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) Trainer through The Learning Community for Person Centered Practices. Having worked in the field for many years, I thought I already understood person-centered thinking—but I quickly realized there was much more to it. Through the certification process, I discovered that these tools aren’t just for professionals—they’re life skills that apply to every area of life, including parenting, relationships, and caregiving.

As a Program Director, I applied these skills to reshape staff training, hiring practices, and annual reporting to reflect a more person-centered approach. On a personal level, I used them to support my own kids during their transition back to in-person learning after COVID-related school closures as well as transitions to new schools.

Today, I’m a full-time Person-Centered Thinking consultant. I’ve trained, mentored, and collaborated with a wide range of individuals and organizations, and I’ve learned firsthand what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to applying PCT principles in real life

At Skills for Life Community, we believe that person-centered training should be inclusive, engaging, and applicable to everyone—not just professionals, but also families, caregivers, and individuals seeking to advocate for themselves or others. All of our workshops and trainings are led by me personally, and you’ll always have direct access to my support, knowledge, and experience.

Whether you’re a family member, a service provider, or part of a larger organization, I’m here to help you learn, grow, and better support the people in your life.

Thanks for visiting, and welcome to the Skills for Life Community!

Warmly,
Adriane Mota
Founder & Person-Centered Thinking Trainer