We had the good fortune of connecting with Cynthia Cerrato and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cynthia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my own private practice was straightforward. I wanted to create a space for clients that fosters feelings of safety and healing in a unique way. I realized that this often doesn’t occur in a traditional office setting, so I decided to offer my services from home. My home, surrounded by greenery and wildlife, enhances the healing process and provides a comforting environment for my clients.

What should our readers know about your business?
At the heart of my work is a commitment to creating a BIPOC-centered, holistic space that honors and uplifts marginalized voices through a decolonized lens. My practice is rooted in the belief that healing and empowerment must be accessible and inclusive, recognizing the unique experiences and cultural backgrounds of BIPOC communities.

What sets my practice apart is the integration of holistic practices that honor ancestral wisdom while providing practical tools for personal and collective growth. I strive to hold space for individuals to explore their identities, heal from historical trauma, and connect with their authentic selves. I am most proud of the community we’ve built—a space where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported in their journeys.

My path to entrepreneurship has been anything but easy. As a single mom pursuing my graduate degree, I faced numerous challenges, especially during my final semester when I experienced profound grief and an existential crisis. Balancing motherhood, academic responsibilities, and my mental health was incredibly overwhelming. However, it was through this tumultuous period that I learned the power of resilience and vulnerability. I sought support from my community, leaned into my healing practices, and found strength in sharing my experiences. These challenges ultimately deepened my understanding of the importance of creating spaces for others to process their own struggles.

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is that vulnerability can be a strength. Sharing my own story of grief and the challenges of motherhood and being a woman of color has allowed others to feel safe in sharing theirs, fostering deeper connections and healing within our community. I also realized that prioritizing self-care and mental well-being is essential to sustaining this work.

What I want the world to know about me and my practice is that I aim to create a ripple effect of healing, empowerment, and decolonization, encouraging individuals to reclaim their narratives and thrive. I believe that when we uplift and support each other, we can create lasting change and cultivate a more equitable world for future generations.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
These are some of my favorite spots:

Food:

Lil East Coffee in El Sereno. This cozy spot serves up delicious coffee and pastries, perfect for kickstarting the trip.

Tirzah’s in El Sereno. Enjoy their vibrant menu that showcases the flavors of the community.

The El Sereno Night Market (Wednesdays only). This gives us an opportunity to explore local vendors, food trucks, and live music while sampling diverse foods.

Cielo in San Marino. Their menu emphasizes fresh ingredients and local flavors. Love that it’s BIPOC owned in a predominantly white community.

Nature and Culture:

Hike at Ascot Hills- Enjoy the beautiful trails and scenic views of the city. Great views of red tail hawks, owls, and native plants. It’s a great way to get some exercise and connect with nature.

The Huntington Library. Explore the beautiful gardens and art collections, soaking in the tranquility and beauty.

Arts and Music:

Catch a free concert at La Plaza. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy live music while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

Visit Griffith Park . Explore the park, check out the Griffith Observatory, and take in breathtaking views of the city.

This itinerary provides a mix of nature, culture, and delicious food while supporting BIPOC-owned businesses and engaging with the community.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I want to thank my parents, who supported me wholeheartedly as a single mother while I pursued my graduate studies. Their unwavering belief in me provided the foundation I needed to succeed.

I also want to acknowledge my fiancé, whose love and encouragement have been a constant source of strength. His support has made all the difference as I navigated the challenges of believing in myself and being a business owner.

Additionally, I owe a great deal to my former therapist, Erika Moreira. Her guidance and insight helped me grow personally and professionally, equipping me with the tools I needed to overcome obstacles along the way. She reminded me of the need for BIPOC therapists developing their private practices.

I cannot forget to mention my two amazing boys, who inspire me every day to strive for my goals and remind me that I can do it all and be a boss. Their smiles and laughter fuel my determination, and they are my greatest motivation.

Lastly, I want to recognize my dear friend, Roberta Fernandez. Her friendship and support have been invaluable, reminding me of the importance of community and connection throughout this journey.

Each of these individuals has contributed to my success, and I am deeply grateful for their presence in my life. Thank you!

Website: https://www.corazonyaire.com

Instagram: corazon_y_aire

Yelp: Corazon Y Aire

Image Credits
Photo credits: Luis Carranza

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.