Natalie Castro

Hello and welcome! I’m Natalie Castro, and I’m so glad you’re here. Let me share a bit about myself and why I’m passionate about this journey.

Growing up, my childhood was filled with therapy sessions and summer camps, all centered around understanding my sister Angie’s world as she navigated autism.

There were moments of frustration and confusion, but then there was a day that changed everything for me.

I went out to eat red velvet pancakes with my parents and Angie at Denny’s. It was my special treat for the week, only to be ruined in less than 5 minutes. Before we got to order our red velvet pancakes, Angie had stood up in our booth, turned to the person behind her and whacked her head with my barbie doll. I was mortifed…

Not only did we have to leave the Denny’s restaurant, but on the way home when tears were rolling down my face. It was a quick second that I couldn’t react to Angie rolling down the car window and grabbed my favorite Barbie doll from my hand, to throw it out the window. I looked back to my barbie doll being crushed by the car behind us and tears turned into anger. It was the moment I thought Autism meant that my sister hated me.

A few weeks went by and my parents had expressed to my sister’s therapists the Denny’s incident. Angie’s speech-language pathologist invited me into one of her sessions to teach me how to play with Angie. I remember staring at her after she invited me in and said, “good luck.”

In the next 30 minutes of my sister’s speech-therapy session, my entire perspective shifted. 

I realized that autism didn’t mean Angie hated me; it meant she saw the world and communicated differently. From that moment, I promised myself that I would support other siblings and families on similar journeys.

That promise turned into a career dedicated to working with autism families. I founded Pieces of Inspiration, a pediatric therapy center, and have collaborated with over 200 families, guiding them through the highs and lows with compassion and understanding. I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of support and education.

Now, through Beyond the Diagnosis, I’m here to offer you personalized coaching, transformative speaking events and consultations designed to support you on your journey. Using my H.O.M.E framework – Habits, Opportunity, Mentor, and Environment – we’ll work together to build a foundation for success and growth.

• Habits: We’ll develop practical habits and routines to support you and your family in your daily life.
• Opportunity: We’ll find opportunities within the struggles, turning obstacles into stepping stones for growth.
• Mentor: I’ll be your mentor while also helping you develop your child’s multidisciplinary team, providing the support, encouragement, and expertise you need to navigate your journey with confidence.
• Environment: We’ll create a nurturing environment, both at home and within yourself, where you and your child can thrive.

At Beyond the Diagnosis, I believe in the power of mindset and lifestyle to empower, inspire, and support every individual on their journey. When you join me, you’ll walk away with practical strategies, renewed confidence, and a supportive community that celebrates every step of your journey.

Welcome to our community. Welcome to Beyond the Diagnosis.

With love and gratitude,
Natalie Castro