Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration comes from my parents. My mother was a social worker, and both of my parents were strong advocates for Latino and marginalized communities. Their commitment to service shaped my purpose early on. Today, through my mental health clinic, we serve everyone from court-mandated clients to individuals seeking therapy for the first time. No matter their journey, we meet each person through a person-centered lens that honors dignity, healing, and the belief that everyone deserves support.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by remembering my “why,” helping others on their therapeutic journey. Everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and supported. Our team often becomes cheerleaders and strength for clients during their most difficult moments, and witnessing their resilience keeps me inspired. Personally, I stay grounded through self-care, mentorship and being mentored, travel, a strong faith in God, and the support of my close-knit family.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would invest in the well-being of the team that pours so much into our clients. We would attend a national conference to strengthen our therapeutic skills, practice self-care, and reconnect as a team, something we last did at the NAMI conference in Denver two years ago to prevent burnout. The remaining funds would support free client groups, supplies like LEGOs for CBT groups, and community events like our Friendsgiving, where many clients experienced their only holiday meal.