Member Spotlight

Ruth Castro, ACSW

Tell us a little bit about yourself—are you a mental health professional? Have you had other jobs before this? Where are you in your journey as a mental health professional/affiliate? What inspired you to become a therapist/clinician/psychiatrist/social worker/lawyer/advocate, etc.,?

I am currently an Associate Clinical Social Worker at a community mental health center. In the past, I’ve worked with a diverse range of clients but now work with adolescents and young adults. I am in the process of pursuing licensure and preparing to take my clinical exam soon (wish me luck!).

It feels like I came into the mental health field organically–I’ve always felt a strong sense of purpose in helping others understand their own patterns and working to break generational cycles. I deeply enjoy helping others better understand and articulate their experiences. I find it very meaningful to walk alongside individuals on their journey.

What areas of practice are you most passionate about today? What kind of clients and modalities are you currently most interested in working with?

I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients. I am drawn to somatic approaches to therapy because I’m fascinated with mind-body connection and how experiences can be processed both physically and emotionally. I find these therapeutic approaches powerful in helping build awareness and healing. I have been learning more about Hakomi therapy and I am interested in pursuing training in this modality due to its mindfulness approach.

How did you learn about LA-CAMFT and what motivated you to join?

I learned about LA-CAMFT through my previous employer where I learned about their Therapist of Color mentorship program. I was paired with a mentor through this program and met with her for a few months. To this day, I keep in touch with them. They have helped and guided me through my licensure journey. 

Since joining LA-CAMFT, what’s been the most helpful or valuable part for you so far? Was there anything about the organization that has pleasantly surprised you?

Since joining LA-CAMFT, I’ve valued the like-minded community. I was surprised at how quickly I made new professional connections. It’s really nice to have a community that understands the challenges of this field and shares a common professional language. Surprisingly, I made great connections through an LA-CAMFT volleyball event at the beach and we still keep in touch!

Are there any professional development opportunities (trainings, supervision, networking, advocacy, etc.), resources, trainings, or supports you’ve learned about through LA-CAMFT that have really stood out to you?

There are a ton of networking opportunities via ongoing monthly events and support groups. I feel a sense of relief knowing that I have a network of professionals that I can turn to if I ever need advice or direction on next steps.

Who do you think would benefit most from joining LA-CAMFT and why?

I think anyone looking for community and wanting to be part of a group that understands the field would benefit. We all need people to lean on throughout the licensure journey because it’s challenging, and individuals seeking support during that process would benefit from joining LA-CAMFT.

What are you most excited about as you continue your journey with LA-CAMFT?

I’m excited to become more involved via my new role as LA-CAMFT Volunteer Coordinator, and am looking forward to making new connections.

Anything else you’d like your fellow LA-CAMFT members to know about you or your experience with LA-CAMFT?

If you’re ever on the fence or feeling nervous about attending an event, I hope it helps to know that there is a solid group of individuals behind the scenes working to create a welcoming space. I encourage you to come out and connect. I hope you’re able to utilize the resources available and feel a sense of connection and belonging.

Ruth Castro, ACSW, is currently an Associate Clinical Social Worker at a community mental health center.

LA-CAMFT invites two members each month to be featured in the Member Spotlight section of Voices - a new member (less than 5 years), alongside a long-time member (5+ years).  Candidates are chosen by current chapter leadership based on their regular participation in and contributions to LA-CAMFT. If you are an LA-CAMFT member and would like to be considered, please reach out to MembershipChair@LACAMFT.org and introduce yourself with the subject line “Member Spotlight Consideration” for more information.