We had the good fortune of connecting with Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey, PsyD and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Clarissa, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
In the symphony of life, I found myself dancing to the beat of others’ drums and expectations for the longest time. Maybe you can relate? Everyone had an opinion on what path I should take, and I listened. “Get good grades; do a bunch of extra-curricular activities; get into a good college; get a good job; keep climbing.” “Do this; not that.” I followed the advice, the well-meaning suggestions, until the noise of external opinions drowned out my own inner voice and melody.

It was a journey, a slow dance of doubt and self-discovery, before I let go of the need to conform to keeping a traditional job; working until 65; retire, and then start living? That never made sense to me, and it was time to let that notion go. Why did I choose an artistic and creative career? Because, deep down, I am an artist, a creator, a multi-passionate person.

Life is a canvas, and I didn’t want to limit myself to a single stroke, being known for one thing. Embracing the twists and turns of my creative spirit felt like shedding an old skin and stepping into the vibrant hues of authenticity.

The decision to pursue an artistic path was not a rebellion against practicality (maybe just a little); it was a celebration of unbecoming all the “shoulds” I “shoulded” on myself. I am a palette of passions, a dance of ideas, and an ode to creativity. In choosing this journey, I’m finding a home in my own skin and a community that celebrates the beauty of being a multi-pronged individual.

Being a multi-passionate to means, painting my own path, one that’s unique to me. I enjoy blending my interests of self-discovery, leadership, wellness, and creativity in the various projects I do.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey is an intricate canvas woven with threads of organizational psychology, coaching, art, and writing. What sets me apart is this eclectic blend, a fusion of skills that allows me to approach my work with a unique perspective. I arrived at this point by following my curiosities, sometimes reluctantly, but always with an unwavering commitment to exploration.

One of my proudest moments was the decision to embark on the entrepreneurial path. It was a leap into the unknown, not without its challenges, but once taken, I wondered why I hadn’t done it sooner. The excitement now lies in the continuous exploration of this creative journey. I started in one direction, and now, I find joy in expanding into new, uncharted territories.

The road here was far from easy. I navigated through different careers, trying on professional roles like Cinderella searching for the perfect fit. My last stint, an 11-year tenure as an internal coach in a healthcare organization, was a dream career. However, I also knew I had no desire to become a C-Suite in any organization. I had the long-term dream to work for myself, so after years of thinking about it, I decided to pivot once again. I departed from the comfort of my corporate job in the middle of 2021, leaving the security of a 9-5 for the adventure of a 24/7 entrepreneurial endeavor.

This transition has been a profound self-development experience. Confronted daily with limiting beliefs, I’ve embraced the journey, experimenting with different offerings and constantly challenging myself. Lessons abound in this entrepreneurial tapestry: seek support, surround yourself with a community, delve into the inner work, prioritize self-care, and strike a balance between self-nurturing and taking strategic action.

My story and brand are a testament to the notion that you can paint your path however you see fit. It’s okay to dislike something and start anew. I am a relentless tough-love cheerleader for possibility, reminding the world that the canvas of your life is vast and waiting for your unique mark-making.

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?
Favorite Spots in the city (in no certain order)

1) 1881 – Altadena
2) Arlington Gardens – Pasadena
3) Vromans Bookstore – Pasadena
4) Blossom Market Hall – San Gabriel
5) SideCCA – Altadena
6) The Rancho – Altadena
7) SpaLA – Koreatown
8) Leanna Lin’s Wonderland – Eagle Rock
9) Clearman’s North Woods Inn – San Gabriel
10) Olive & Thyme – Toluca Lake
11) One Life Yoga – Pasadena
12) The Proper – La Canada

I could go on and on…but here’s a good start 🙂

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many shoutouts I could give today. I’m going to dedicate this shoutout to my parents. They came to this country to start a new life, create a path for themselves. They sacrificed a lot to be here, stay here. My parents are the OG trailblazers. I couldn’t see it as a child, but it’s clear as day to me now. Without them, I wouldn’t be here!

Website: https://clarissastudio.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.clarissacastilloramsey

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccastilloramsey

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccastilloramsey

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clarissa.castilloramsey

Other: Free gift for anyone who’s asking themselves, am I living my true path? https://clarissastudio.activehosted.com/f/7

Image Credits
Sonia Tapia Heidi Garcia

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.