Victorious Living: How Building Resilience Turns Setbacks Into Success

Patricia and family in the Dominican Republic

For Patricia, the decision to establish her counseling practice in Lake Mary was a true homecoming. Born and raised in Altamonte Springs, she spent her childhood in Seminole County before moving to Southwest Florida after high school. It was in the Naples area that she met her husband and began raising their three daughters.

However, the pull of her hometown remained strong. Ten years ago, the family relocated back to Seminole County. Returning to the area allowed Patricia to raise her daughters, who are now navigating college and eighth grade, in the very same community that shaped her own life.

Patricia's path to mental health counseling began during her college years, when she volunteered with at-risk youth. This experience, along with her work at several organizations serving families, solidified her desire to help others. She went on to earn a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, eventually becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. After gaining over a decade of experience in the field, including running a private practice for six years, she founded Victory Counseling Services to provide care within the community she calls home.

Located at 600 Rinehart Road, Suite 3086, Victory Counseling Services offers personalized care for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Patricia assists clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions using evidence-based approaches.

Her philosophy centers on building a welcoming environment where clients can set their own pace.

"At Victory Counseling Services, I believe that therapy should feel like a place where you can exhale," Patricia notes. "My goal is to create an environment where people feel comfortable, accepted, and never judged."

Drawing from her professional expertise and her experience as a local parent, Patricia encourages residents to view therapy as a proactive tool rather than a last resort.

"Don't wait until you're completely overwhelmed to ask for help," she says. "Therapy isn't just for crises, it's a place to process life, gain perspective, and learn new ways to move forward."

For parents, she emphasizes connection over perfection, reminding them to offer themselves grace and focus on repairing relationships during difficult moments.

The impact of this supportive approach is reflected in the experiences of those she treats. One local client shared that Patricia helped them feel comfortable and supported from the very beginning.

"She has a way of helping you see things within yourself in a very nonjudgmental and compassionate way," the client noted. "Through our work together, I’ve been able to gain new insight and a better understanding of myself."

By tailoring sessions to individual needs rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Patricia helps community members build practical tools for everyday life. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact Victory Counseling Services at (689) 777-3152 or via email at victorycounselingservices@gmail.com.