We recently connected with Carla D’Agostino-Vigil and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Carla with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
Hi! Thank you for having me. My generosity is deeply rooted in the values instilled in me by my upbringing, particularly through my experiences working in my parents’ business in our small mountain community. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how their commitment to supporting others and giving with abundance not only enriched the lives of those around us but also contributed to the success of our family business.
In our tight-knit community, the principle of “giver’s gain” was evident in every interaction. My parents understood that by offering support, whether it was through providing goods and services to those in need, or simply lending a helping hand, we were not just building goodwill but also fostering a network of mutual support.
Through their actions, I learned that true success isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about lifting others up along the way. This mindset of generosity shaped my own values and approach to business.
Today, as I navigate the business world, I carry with me the lessons learned from my parents’ example. I believe that by giving generously and fostering a spirit of collaboration and support, we not only enrich the lives of those around us but also create opportunities for collective success.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
In my role, I bring together my extensive background in Human Resources and employee relations with my passion for mental health advocacy to run a dynamic group mental health practice (Ignite Counseling Colorado) and a consulting firm focused on elevating the Group Practice owner (Ignite Center for Mental Health Leadership).
What excites me most about this endeavor at Ignite Center for Mental Health Leadership is the opportunity to empower group practice owners with tangible solutions and support that elevate their practices to new heights.We understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing mental health professionals, especially in light of evolving labor laws. With the revised regulations on contractors set to take effect in March 2024, it’s more crucial than ever for practice owners to ensure compliance while maintaining the integrity and quality of their services.
One of our flagship offerings, “Creating a Thriving W2 Employee Group Practice,” is designed to address these specific needs. We provide comprehensive guidance and resources to help practice owners navigate the complexities of employee management, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and beyond. By focusing on W2 employment structures, we empower practice owners to build sustainable and compliant practices that prioritize the well-being of both their employees and their clients.
Ultimately, our goal is to not only support the success of individual practice owners but also to contribute to the overall growth and advancement of the mental health profession as a whole. Through our work, we strive to create a community where practitioners feel empowered, supported, and equipped to make a positive impact in the lives of their clients.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as particularly impactful: the mindset and value around Giver’s Gain, the quality of solution orientation, and the ability to pull together and lead a team with complementary strengths for collective success.
Mindset and value around reciprocity: The principle of Giver’s Gain has been foundational to my success. By embracing the ethos of giving generously and supporting others, I’ve cultivated strong relationships, built trust within my community, and created opportunities for mutual growth. My advice for those early in their journey is to approach relationship building from the standpoint of reciprocity. Focus on how you can add value to others without expecting immediate returns. Show genuine interest, offer assistance, and be willing to give generously of your time and expertise. In doing so, you’ll not only establish yourself as a trusted ally but also create a network of support that will enrich your journey in ways you never imagined.
Solution mindset: In navigating the challenges and complexities of business, the ability to approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset has been crucial. Rather than dwelling on obstacles, I’ve learned to focus on finding practical, effective solutions. My advice for those looking to develop this skill is to show up and be consistent. Honor your word, follow through on commitments, and persevere in the face of setbacks. Cultivate a mindset of resilience and adaptability, viewing every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. By embracing a solution-oriented approach, you’ll not only overcome obstacles more effectively but also inspire confidence and trust in those around you.
Assemble a dynamic, diverse team: No journey to success is undertaken alone. The ability to pull together and lead a team with complementary strengths is essential for achieving collective success. Surround yourself with individuals who bring diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table. My advice for aspiring leaders is to seek advice from those who can give it to you straight. Surround yourself with mentors and advisors who will provide honest feedback and guidance. Be open to constructive criticism and actively seek opportunities for growth and development. By leveraging the collective strengths of your team and fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support, you’ll not only achieve greater success but also create a more fulfilling and rewarding journey for everyone involved.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client at Ignite Center for Mental Health Leadership is someone who embodies a willingness to embrace vulnerability in order to seek out and receive support in resolving blind spots. This individual recognizes that personal and professional growth often requires acknowledging areas where they may need assistance or guidance, and they are open to exploring these aspects of themselves in order to achieve greater success and fulfillment.
Additionally, my ideal client operates from a spirit of abundance, recognizing that resources, time, and knowledge are meant to be shared and leveraged for mutual benefit. They approach their journey with a mindset of openness and receptivity, understanding that feedback, even when challenging, is a valuable tool for growth and improvement.Someone who is willing to lean into discomfort in order to expand their horizons, and open to receiving support and feedback along the way.
Contact Info:
