Exploring Life & Business with Linda Ruvalcaba of Empezando Contigo: Association for Latine Therapists

Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Ruvalcaba

Hi Linda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey to where I am today has been shaped by a deep commitment to helping others and building community. Growing up as a Chicana, I witnessed the unique challenges faced by the Latine community in accessing mental health support, from stigma to systemic barriers. These experiences inspired me to become a therapist who provides culturally attuned care.

I became a licensed professional counselor and opened Empieza Aquí Counseling to support Latine adults navigating anxiety, trauma, and grief. My work is grounded in creating a safe, understanding space where clients can heal and thrive.

During the pandemic, I saw a need for greater connection among Latine therapists and organized virtual networking events. These events eventually evolved into Empezando Contigo: Association for Latine Therapists, a nonprofit professional association that provides resources, community, and advocacy for Latine mental health professionals.

Today, I balance counseling, consulting, and leading Empezando Contigo. I also share life lessons and reflections on my Instagram account, therapy.girl, where I connect with others authentically by sharing my personal journey and the strategies I’ve used to navigate life’s challenges.

I’m incredibly proud of the work I do and the community I’ve built, and I look forward to continuing to create meaningful spaces for healing and growth.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road hasn’t always been smooth, but each challenge has shaped me and brought me closer to where I am today. Working in community mental health was particularly difficult. I faced racism, discrimination, and harassment in those settings, which took a toll on me personally and professionally. However, those experiences reinforced my commitment to creating spaces where both clients and colleagues feel respected, valued, and empowered.

Transitioning to private practice was a transformative experience. Building Empieza Aquí Counseling felt natural and fulfilling, and I’ve been fortunate to find success in that part of my journey. The work itself has been rewarding, and I’ve felt a deep sense of alignment with my purpose.

Building Empezando Contigo: Association for Latine Therapists has been another high point in my career. Unlike the struggles I faced earlier, this journey has been filled with support and love from my family, friends, and the incredible comunidad. It’s been inspiring to see how much people believe in this vision and want to contribute to its growth.

While the road hasn’t been without its bumps, I’m grateful for where it’s led me. Every challenge has taught me something valuable, and every success has been a reminder of the strength and beauty of community.

We’ve been impressed with Empezando Contigo: Association for Latine Therapists, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Empezando Contigo: Association for Latine Therapists is a professional organization dedicated to uplifting and supporting Latine mental health professionals. What started as a local networking group in Phoenix in January 2020 quickly evolved into a virtual community during the pandemic, with over 100 participants engaging in our events. This response highlighted the need for a professional association tailored to the unique experiences and challenges faced by Latine therapists, and Empezando Contigo was born.

We specialize in creating culturally attuned resources, fostering community, and advocating for Latine representation and equity in the mental health field. Our mission is to provide a space where Latine therapists can connect, learn, and grow while amplifying their voices and contributions to the profession.

What sets us apart is our focus on comunidad and our commitment to cultural inclusion. As a gender-inclusive, Latina-led organization, we recognize the diversity within the Latine community and strive to honor it in everything we do. Our offerings include networking events, support groups, clinical resources, and professional development opportunities. We also plan to expand into retreats, conferences, and discounts for our members.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the heart behind Empezando Contigo. From our early days of virtual networking to the thriving professional association we are today, everything we’ve built has been rooted in love, connection, and a deep belief in the power of collective growth.

For anyone considering joining or learning more, I want you to know that Empezando Contigo is more than just an organization—it’s a comunidad. Whether you’re seeking support, looking to connect with other Latine therapists, or hoping to expand your professional resources, we’re here to grow with you and celebrate all the unique gifts you bring to this field.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
A little-known fact about me is that I was once a certified Zumba instructor. Well, technically, I got certified, taught one class, realized I was terrible at it, and decided to stick to being a participant instead!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.empezandocontigo.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empezando.contigo/

Image Credits
Meredith Comfort
Yelly Beans Photography