We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bettina Capucho. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bettina below.

Bettina , appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear stories from your time in school/training/etc.

To begin with, I would like to emphasize that one decides their career path upon graduating from high school, typically at the age of 17. Personally, I find this to be a very young age to decide something as significant as one’s lifelong occupation. I was fortunate to choose a career that I was passionate about from the beginning, but I was always open to the possibility that it might not be the right fit for me and that I might need to explore other fields. I always worked hard to maintain good grades and always took extra courses, which allowed me to graduate a year earlier than expected. I used to work during the day and go to college at night, which didn’t leave much time for rest or a social life, but I knew all along that this was only a temporary sacrifice.
My main story here is that I encountered many bureaucratic obstacles in pursuing my profession the way I desired. However, I decided to keep studying and preparing myself to be the best version of me, for the day when the opportunities I hoped for would come. Since I didn’t have the financial resources to study the way I wanted, this involved making many phone calls and sending many emails to compete for scholarships that would allow me to expand my knowledge in those areas that I found interesting. After many attempts and sacrifices, I have managed to complete five master’s degrees, a postgraduate program, and a doctorate. So, my first message here is, don’t give up; when you are truly passionate about something, you eventually find a way to fulfill your dreams.
My second message is that you don’t always need to have a 100% defined plan to start taking action. When I began my postgraduate studies, I wasn’t entirely sure about the area of psychology I wanted to pursue. However, I was given job opportunities with UN programs, NGOs, and other places that gradually immersed me in the world of childhood and parenting, leading me to discover that this is my true passion. But I remained open to the possibility of discovering new passions later on.
My third and final message is that along the way, you will encounter many people—some will be obstacles, and others will be of great human beings that will help you through your path. There are things you won’t be able to control, but you can choose who you are to other people. So be that amazing human being to others, be a guide, and a helping hand. When you do good, you attract good, and wonderful things happen to you.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am a Clinical Psychologist, writer, speaker, and university lecturer. I have published 4 books focusing on supporting the oncological population, personal growth and children’s emotions. My journey into the realm of psychology was fueled by a deep-rooted passion for understanding and nurturing the human mind. My practice is unique in its use of creative and playful methods, both in English and Spanish, to address emotional needs, particularly in children.
When I work with grownups, I believe in connecting with their inner child, a concept that transcends age and is vital in viewing life through a simpler, more joyful lens. And when I work with children, besides therapy sessions with them, I also get a lot done by guiding parents on their parenting journey, offering support to strengthen family ties and navigate daily challenges, this means a complete accompaniment, so they have tools to work at home too. I have a great commitment to a family-centered approach. Recognizing that healing and growth as individuals are pivotal to being better parents and creating harmonious homes.

What I am most proud of is the impact of my work on the lives of children, mothers, and families. Seeing tangible improvements in their emotional health and family dynamics is deeply fulfilling. I want potential clients and followers to know that my brand and work are centered around empathy, innovation, and a genuine commitment to bettering lives. Whether through therapy, teaching, or my written works, my goal is to leave a legacy of hope, healing, and personal growth for those who engage with my services.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

A story that exemplifies my resilience unfolded during my application process for a highly competitive scholarship. This scholarship, focused on fields like politics, business, and administration, so not really related to my field at the time, but it represented a pivotal opportunity for furthering my career in child and adolescent clinical psychology. However, during my initial attempt, I encountered a significant hurdle: I lacked a crucial document at the time of application. Far from being discouraged, this setback became an essential component for my determination and growth. Over the next year, I dedicated myself to strengthening my profile. I engaged in various volunteer programs, attended additional courses, and immersed myself in activities that enriched both my experience and understanding in the field of psychology and business at the same time. This effort not only improved my application but also broadened my professional perspective and skills.
When I reapplied the following year, I did so with deeper conviction and a significantly enhanced profile. I presented a compelling argument on how properly attending to today’s children can lead to more compassionate and effective leaders in business, politics, and other fields in the future. My unconventional approach, combining psychology with leadership and social development, caught the foundation’s attention.
Ultimately, my persistence and dedication paid off: I was awarded the full scholarship to study my master’s in child and adolescent clinical psychology. This experience was not just a testament to my resilience but also reaffirmed my belief in the importance of preparation and adaptability in pursuing professional goals. It taught me that, with the right approach, even seemingly unrelated fields can converge to support a broader vision and more significant impact.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

In addition to training and knowledge, I believe that empathy, a strong human connection, and creativity are crucial for success in the field of Psychology. Empathy is the cornerstone of my practice. It goes beyond understanding a people’s emotions; it involves deeply connecting with their experiences and feelings. This emotional harmony allows me to build trust with my clients, creating a safe space where they can open up and explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Empathy not only aids in therapeutic interventions with children but also in communicating effectively with parents and caregivers, ensuring a holistic approach to each child’s well-being.
The human side, or the ability to connect on a personal level, is equally important. It’s about being present, genuine, and approachable. Specially children, who are incredibly perceptive and respond to authenticity. Showing my human side helps in breaking down barriers, making people feel seen and heard, which is essential in fostering their emotional and psychological growth.
Lastly, creativity in therapy is a powerful tool. Each person is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in Psychology. Creative methods, whether through play, art, storytelling, or other innovative techniques, allow me to tailor my approach to each person’s individual needs and learning style whether it’s a child or a grownup. Creativity in problem-solving and treatment planning also keeps the therapy dynamic and effective, catering to the evolving challenges and needs of each family.
In summary, while academic training and professional knowledge are fundamental, it’s the combination of empathy, a genuine human connection, and creativity that truly sets one apart in the field of Psychology. These elements not only enhance the therapeutic process but also contribute to a deeper understanding and more meaningful impact on the families I work with.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terapiaconbetty?igsh=MWhubHFlaW44dHQ4bw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettina-a-capucho-883a03291/
• Other: Email: [email protected]

Image Credits
Photographer: Maria Alexandra Schulze – [email protected]