Meet Betsy Castro
Young woman with long dark hair working on a laptop at a table in a cafe, with a blue mug nearby.

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Betsy Castro a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Betsy, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

Being the only one in the room who looks like me is something I’ve experienced in different ways throughout my life and career. As a Latina who grew up navigating multiple cultures, I’ve often felt like I didn’t fully fit into one box. At times, I’ve felt “too Latina” in certain spaces and “not Latina enough” in others. That in-between space could have felt like a disadvantage, but I’ve learned to see it as one of my greatest strengths.

It’s given me the ability to adapt, to read the room, and to communicate effectively with people from very different backgrounds. In my work, especially supporting mental health professionals and their clients, that perspective allows me to bridge gaps with empathy and intention. I understand the importance of feeling seen, heard, and respected from the very first interaction.

I’ve also learned that success in those moments doesn’t come from trying to blend in, but from being grounded in who I am. I focus on the value I bring, the systems I build, and the experience I help create for others. Over time, that consistency speaks louder than any difference.

Being “the only one” has taught me resilience, but more importantly, it has taught me how to create spaces where others don’t have to feel that way. And that is something I carry into my business every single day.

Woman working on a laptop at a white counter in a bright, modern cafe with yellow chairs and artwork on the wall.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m the founder of The Mental Health VA, where we provide HIPAA-compliant virtual assistant and intake coordination services for mental health professionals. We act as the bridge between therapists and those seeking support, ensuring every first interaction is handled with care and intention.

What makes our work special is that we go beyond admin support. We help practice owners build systems that are sustainable, while creating a seamless client experience from day one. Many therapists have built something amazing, but not always something scalable, and that’s where we come in.

The most rewarding part is seeing therapists regain their time and reduce burnout, while their clients feel more supported and guided. Right now, I’m focused on growing our impact and continuing to create balance for both the business and the people behind it.

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If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Discipline, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.

Discipline is what keeps you moving when motivation fades. Adaptability allows you to grow in changing environments and work with different people and systems. And emotional intelligence is key, especially in my field, it helps you communicate effectively, build trust, and create meaningful client experiences.

My advice is simple: stay consistent, stay open to learning, and don’t underestimate the power of how you make people feel.

Woman with long dark hair in pink outfit reaching for a book on a bookshelf.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown has had a big impact on how I lead. Early on, I felt the pressure to always have the answers, but as I grew, I realized leadership isn’t about perfection, it’s about clarity and trust.

Being open and vulnerable with my team has allowed for more collaboration and better solutions. While I ultimately make the final decision, their input helps shape it. That shift has made me a stronger, more grounded leader.

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