Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mayra Perez, M.Ed., BCBA. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Mayra, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.

Core Foundations Consulting was created to address the gaps I found that were constantly being highlighted in the neurodivergent field. I have worked in the field of ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) since 2008. In all those years, there were needs that I consistently attempted to address. Parents often find themselves thrusted into this intricate field, grappling with intimidating terminology, difficult processes, and a lack of support. Many are unfamiliar with the complexities of the school system, such as Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans, unaware of applicable laws and procedures, and uncertain about the resources at their disposal. Making informed decisions becomes a challenge when crucial factors remain unknown. Some educators don’t know how to best address a child’s needs or how to teach a certain skill. So, throughout the years, I have learned and taught my clients whenever I could. I realized this consistent need was a problem that I decided to tackle. Core Foundations Consulting was created to consult, guide and train anyone who may need it and want it. The worst feeling is to need help and not know where to turn. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions, teach skills, and advocate for the best interests of those they care for. I aim to be the unwavering support that individuals, educators, and families can turn to, ensuring that no one feels alone on their journey toward understanding, advocacy, and empowerment.

So far, we have started several social skills and Life Skills Enrichment Programs, including school-based cooking classes. We have assisted with IEP advocacy. I have consulted with parents that have received a new diagnosis for their child and guided them through the next steps to take and shared what resources were available. We have also created community events designed to foster connections among parents, creating a supportive environment where they can connect and find solidarity. We serve individuals of all ages and backgrounds, offering our services from early identification of children’s needs to adult skill development and programs.

As Core Foundations Consulting continues to evolve, my hope is to illuminate the path for anyone seeking assistance, create and teach learning opportunities where there isn’t one, and fostering a community where knowledge is power, and support is readily available.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Going into this field all started with my brother. When I was 12, my brother and I learned our baby brother was born with Down syndrome. No one had previously known, so navigating through this news as a family had its challenging moments. I remember my parents being told my brother wouldn’t talk, walk or have a “normal” life. I remember not truly understanding that at that age, but I observed the impact it had on my parents. My brother received therapies and we saw his progression. Through my parents’ journey I saw the challenges, frustrations and at times confusion when navigating through all his services at home and at school. As he’s gotten older, I have seen the gaps and lack of support, especially during the initial diagnosis period and into the lack of adult programs and services. I’ve always been a person to want to know why and how to help others. I remember as a little girl, always going up to peers that were alone and asking them if they wanted to be my friend. My intrinsic desire to help others led me to pursue psychology. During my exploration of psychology, I found the, then new field of ABA. Recognizing the potential to make a meaningful difference, I dove deeper into the field and eventually became a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA). My professional journey has encompassed various roles, from interventionist to supervisor, manager, assessor and director, across diverse settings such as homes, schools, group homes, job settings, community services, and center-based services.

Despite the challenges and obstacles, the fulfillment from witnessing the success stories and progress of my clients has fueled my commitment. I had one client that I had worked with for years. He did not communicate verbally and loved to play actively. I frequented his house often, so we developed a close relationship. One day, while we were working on a puzzle, he looked at me, grabbed my face and said, “all done” and gestured to play. I remember the absolute joy and pride I had that he had communicated in several forms, and I knew exactly what he wanted. With tears of joy running down my face, we cleaned up that puzzle and went to play. I remember the child’s parents crying and calling family members about what had just occurred. That moment, although years ago, is so near to my heart. Moments like those are what have kept me going and fighting.

As time went on and I gained more experience, I started social skills programs for a few companies. I also attended and collaborated with my client’s services, including speech, occupational, mental health, school services and medical providers. With that exposure and willingness to learn, I started to help others in the areas beyond the direct realm of ABA.
Through my extensive experience I’ve seen the field evolve, but I still have identified very important needs that were not readily available. Identifying crucial needs that were not addressed in the evolving field, I founded Core Foundations Consulting. Our services encompass one-on-one consulting, group training, program development (including social skills, and life enrichment programs like cooking classes), IEP consultation and advocacy, community events, live webinars, and the upcoming launch of online courses to extend support to parents and educators on a broader scale.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My life, to me, feels like a continuous journey of resilience. From my teenage years into adulthood, I faced challenging health issues accompanied by debilitating pain. In the midst of it all, seeing the light at the end of the tunnel was a struggle, and on some days, it seemed almost nonexistent. At one point, doctors told me there was nothing they could do for me. But I found my way out with guidance, support, and faith.

Through my own health struggles, I continued to fight and want to fight for those that were told their “limits.” I refused and continue to refuse any preconceived limitations anyone puts on others, including my brother. My brother has done things that my parents were told he could not do. Why was that said? Because of a diagnosis or label? No one can definitively tell a person what the future holds. Even when given a diagnosis. A diagnosis or label does not diminish one’s worth or capability. For me, many deficits labeled means “not yet” or “not that way.” It’s about discovering the unique ways individuals learn and communicate, respecting their pace, and ensuring respect and autonomy. Their way. The journey is about finding their path, not adhering to predetermined expectations and ensuring there are enough opportunities to develop that potential.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

I believe knowing a person genuinely cares makes a world of a difference. When individuals sense authentic support, it not only encourages them to return but also leads them to refer others. Our digital resources, community outreach, and word-of-mouth referrals have grown Core Foundations Consulting. Utilizing online platforms, we have been able to reach a broader audience and engage with potential clients interested in our services. Our active involvement in the community, such as hosting workshops and events, has helped us establish trust and credibility. Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients have played a significant role in expanding our clientele. I’ve the pleasure of working with a variety of clients, both neurodivergent and neurotypical. I often work with clients that have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, attention-deficit/ hyperactive disorder (ADHD), developmental delays, anxiety, speech delays, sensory processing disorder, social skills concerns, learning disabilities, safety concerns, behavioral concerns, skills deficits and more. We continue to attract and retain a diverse and growing client base. Being a part of numerous family journeys has been a genuine honor, aiming to serve as a guiding light toward progress and happiness. I look forward to assisting many more in the future.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.corefoundationsconsulting.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/core.foundations.consulting/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550469670087
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/core-foundations-consulting-anaheim