A person-centered series by Kurtis | VAC HCBS Coordinator & Certified PCT Trainer
In August of 2024, I began what I thought would be a straightforward training process. But becoming a Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) trainer has been so much more than completing a checklist—it’s been a full-on transformation.
The process took months. It meant late nights diving deep into the curriculum, sharpening my presentation skills, and—maybe most importantly—unlearning. I had to clear out some of the old ways I’d always approached this work and make room for something better. Something deeper. Something more human.
There were moments I had to really sit with myself and ask:
Is what I’m doing—and what we’re doing as a system—really what’s best for the people in our care?
That question stayed with me. And I’m glad it did. Because through this journey, I’ve come out the other side with more clarity, more conviction, and a stronger belief than ever in what Person-Centered Thinking can do—not just for others, but for all of us.
And I’ll be honest—I’m still in it.
I’m still refining my skills, whether I’m leading a Zoom session or standing in front of a room full of people. I’m still rewiring parts of my brain that were trained to focus on “the program” instead of the person. And I’m not ashamed to say that. Growth takes time. It takes intention.
This work has challenged me. It’s stretched me. But it’s also inspired me.
That’s why this new series, Centered, exists.
It’s a space to share real stories, tools, and reflections on what it means to lead and serve with a person-centered mindset. Each month, I’ll also include practical skills and best practices from The Learning Community for Person Centered Practices—so we’re not just talking about change, we’re learning how to live it.
Let’s keep growing together. Let’s keep centering people—every step of the way.