Ruby Castilla Puentes, UIS Physician. Specialist in Psychiatry. She is part of a team of trainers of Psychiatrists in the United States. With more than 10 years of experience in academia, and for more than 1 year, linked to the APA (American Psychiatric Association), she was recently chosen to be a mentor for young people belonging to minorities in a government program sponsored by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services).
Dr. Castilla is a leader of WARMI International, a mental health community and collaborative network of mental health professionals working to improve the mental health of women in Quechua-Aymara. With more than 682 members in 21 countries, its goal is to improve communication among people working in the field of women’s health in Latin America, serve as a point of contact for issues related to women’s mental health, and liaise with public and private agencies on research topics relevant to its target demographic. Her current and future projects include initiatives to address mental health among indigenous populations, gender-focused psychotherapy, violence against women, and psychopharmacology with a focus on gender differences.
Dr. Ruby believes that the most important thing is to “do what you love” rather than trying to force yourself to adopt a traditional approach. She is part of a group of experts leading the way to impact and develop deep connections within the Hispanic/Latino communities. These examples of community organizing, clinical research and podcasting expanded the imagination of how one can influence their community, make a living and love what they do.
