Community Highlights: Meet Dr. Lori Ochoa of Life by Design Development

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Lori Ochoa.

Hi Dr. Lori, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began with a deep curiosity about human behavior and a desire to understand why we do what we do. After earning my degree in Psychology and Social Behavior from UC Irvine and completing my Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Behavior Analysis, I spent years teaching graduate students and training professionals in the science of behavior.

But my work has always been about more than theory — it’s been about transformation. I co-founded Bloom Behavioral Health to serve children with developmental disabilities and their families, and over time, I realized that the same behavioral principles that helped children thrive could also help adults live with greater clarity and purpose.

When my son was born deaf and with his own developmental disabilities, everything I knew about behavior became deeply personal. That moment changed the trajectory of my life. It challenged me to live what I taught — to meet uncertainty with acceptance, adaptability, and grace. I discovered that real growth begins when we stop striving for control and start leaning into courage, compassion, and connection.

That realization inspired me to create Life by Design Inc., where I merge the art of psychology and behavioral science to help people gain clarity, build resilience, and take committed action toward what truly matters. Through my coaching, workshops, and speaking engagements, I guide individuals and organizations to move beyond limitations and align their actions with their values.

I often say my story is one of science and purpose — of turning knowledge into transformation and challenge into clarity, one intentional step at a time. Rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), my work empowers people to live with openness and flexibility, release what no longer serves them, and take courageous action toward a life aligned with their values.

Today, I feel deeply grateful to do what I love — helping others connect to their purpose, rise through challenge, and design a life that feels meaningful, intentional, and fulfilling.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. My journey has been filled with moments of deep learning, unexpected turns, and a lot of growth through discomfort.

One of my biggest challenges came when my son was born deaf and with developmental disabilities. As a behavior analyst, I had the science and the tools — but as a mother, I was experiencing a level of vulnerability and uncertainty I had never known before. It was one thing to teach acceptance and adaptability in theory; it was another to live it in real time. I had to grieve the expectations I once held, redefine what progress looked like, and learn to meet both my son and myself with compassion rather than control.

There were years when I struggled to balance it all — being a professional, a business owner, a mother, a wife, and still a woman trying to find herself in the process. I often felt pulled in every direction, wondering if I was doing enough or being enough in any one role. Acceptance, for me, became a daily practice — not a single moment of surrender, but an ongoing process of learning to allow life to unfold without resistance.

What I discovered through it all is that struggle can be a teacher if we’re willing to listen. The very challenges that once felt overwhelming became the foundation of my work today. They taught me how to hold space for others who are navigating their own seasons of uncertainty, change, and growth. The road wasn’t smooth, but it was purposeful — and every detour brought me closer to the work I was meant to do.

We’ve been impressed with Life by Design Development, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Life by Design Development was created from my passion to merge the science of human behavior with the art of personal growth and empowerment. I help individuals and organizations gain clarity, build resilience, and take intentional action toward what truly matters. My approach integrates psychology, behavioral science, coaching, and Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) — offering a purpose-driven path toward empowerment and well-being.

At the heart of my work is the belief that empowerment begins with awareness — understanding the patterns that hold us back, the values that guide us, and the actions that move us forward. I focus on cultivating psychological flexibility (resilience) — the ability to adapt, stay grounded, and live in alignment with one’s values, even in the face of challenge.

What sets Life by Design apart is its integration of evidence-based science with practical, real-life application. It’s not about quick fixes or surface-level motivation; it’s about meaningful, sustainable transformation. I help clients reconnect with their purpose, elevate their well-being, and design a life that reflects who they truly are and what they stand for.

Through coaching, workshops, and speaking engagements, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, teams, and organizations committed to growth and authenticity. From The EmpowerHER Experience and Rise to Your Next Level to leadership trainings that build clarity and purpose-driven culture, every offering is designed to help people live with intention and connect to what truly matters.

What were you like growing up?
I loved connection, laughter, being involved at school, and learning. I was curious about people and fascinated by what made them think, feel, and act the way they do. I was also the friend who was always listening and offering advice.

I had a balance of drive and playfulness — I loved setting goals but also finding joy in the moment. Nature has always been my place to reset and reflect. Looking back, those same qualities — curiosity, compassion, and connection — have always guided me and continue to shape the work I do today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://drloriochoa.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drloriochoa
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveyourbestlifewithdrloriochoa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lori-ochoa-278208100