Today we’d like to introduce you to Patricia Avalos.
Hi Patricia, I am so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story? How did you get to where you are today?
My story started many years ago. I remember telling my grandmother at the age of 8 that one day, I would be a counselor. I decided to go into business as a dedication to my mother and her life. I often say that the Lord prepared me to be a counselor from childhood. I watched my mom struggle with a mental illness. I saw how she tried to get help and was misdiagnosed, which caused more heartache in her life. My mom’s life taught me so much about the importance of showing compassion for others. I went back to school in my late 20s and, at the time, had an 8-year-old stepdaughter, a 4-year-old, and a 6-month-old baby. I was determined to finally achieve my dream of being a counselor. While in school, I volunteered for several organizations mentoring at-risk youth. I then worked for a group practice during my internship and post-graduate training. I prepared and planned on opening my practice for over a year, but I almost didn’t pursue it because my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, and I had to help care for him. Despite this challenge, I decided to press forward. I realized even more what the power of faith can do. My dreams finally came true, and my practice opened in December 2022. Two weeks after I opened, my mother died, but I didn’t lose sight of the reason I started this journey in the first place. My business logo has a butterfly because my mom loved butterflies. I’m thankful for the gift of her life and dedicate all I do to honor her. Soon, I plan to expand and open up a nonprofit to continue spreading the message of hope to others.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth ride because I had things happen in my family that weren’t planned. I had to learn how to balance what was going on in my personal life and focus on growing my business. I will say, looking back, I’m glad I stayed the course. My practice has grown so much, and I am honored to help those in the community.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Victory Counseling Services, LLC?
Victory Counseling Services is a counseling practice in the central FL area. I have experience counseling individuals of all ages (ages 3 to seniors). I help individuals with a variety of mental health needs. I specialize in assisting others to navigate life transitions, self-worth, anxiety, depression, and grief. I create a welcoming environment where people feel accepted and valued right where they are and encouraged to take steps to improve their lives. I’m proud that people who come to Victory Counseling Services find hope amid their struggles and can feel comfortable sharing their stories.
Do you have any advice for those just starting?
When starting, I think it’s essential that you have a team of people who help encourage you to stay focused on your why. This helps in those difficult days and when feeling discouraged. I am thankful for those who have challenged and encouraged me to keep going. I would also say to keep your why at the forefront of your mind so you always remember what led you to this journey. I wish I had known more about the administrative side before starting, but I continue to learn and grow in this area.
Pricing:
- $125/hour
- $100/45-minutes
- Accept certain insurance plans
- Sliding scale options available upon approval
Contact Info:
- Website: www.victory-counseling-services.com
- Instagram: @victory_counseling_services
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090999145986&mibextid=2JQ9oc
