Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Lorenzo.
Hi Katrina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
My journey began as many do, with being stuck in a place of uncertainty and then having an epiphany. I had graduated with a Bachelor’s in Public Relations from Florida International University in the Spring of 2016, and as I began to look for a job fresh out of college, I started to realize that a life in PR was not for me. I kept repeating a statement from a professor of mine, “say goodbye to your family, friends, birthdays…”, and ultimately decided that was not the life I had envisioned for myself.
As a child of divorce, I have always prided myself on the fact that despite a marriage ending the family unit continued to thrive. I feel extremely lucky that my sister and I had parents that put their children’s happiness and well-being first and foremost. A part of me always thought about how I can help others through similar journeys. And just like magic, my mentors including Dr. Jeff Bauman and my sister, Dr. Liana Lorenzo-Echeverri, sat me down coincidentally and asked me the same question, “what about applying to the Marriage and Family Therapy master’s program at Nova Southeastern University?” They were both aware of my ability to listen, offer different perspectives, and empower others that I had never acknowledged myself. I decided to apply to the program, and found myself being invited for an interview. Throughout the day of interviews, I found myself easily ebbing in and out of conversations, and I finally felt I was exactly where I was meant to be. Fast forward to the Fall of 2017, I was embarking on the very first day of my journey as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Now here I am, a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (IMT 3181), nearing becoming licensed!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I find it hard to believe that anyone has a journey that does not involve some type of struggle. For me, the struggles came with getting back into the groove of school after a year off, introspection I did not foresee, and learning my biases and how to handle those as I meet individuals from all walks of life. With the guidance from incredible mentors, professors, supervisors, and colleagues these struggles were easy to overcome. Ultimately, I am thankful for the lessons they taught me because they have provided me with the ability to be present in the therapy room, to listen, to offer different perspectives, provide empathy, and so much more.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about South Broward Therapy practicing at Counseling and Wellness Center of South Florida (CWCSF)?
I have found that my most fulfilling work comes from collaborating with adolescents, young adults and adults whom are navigating life transitions and those that can benefit from building up their self-esteem by being empowered. I strongly believe that we all possess the ability to believe in ourselves, some may just need a little help in acknowledging their strengths. Some of the life transitions my clients may find themselves navigating is life during and after high school, life during and after college, deciding on a career, or even working through relationships with others and oneself. My intention is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and comfortable environment for my clients.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I have learned along my journey is to never ever doubt myself. It is incredibly easy to compare yourself to others, and get caught up in the idea of, “they are a better therapist”, “oh wow how come I didn’t come up with that question”, or what have you. With my clients, friends, and family, it is important to practice what I preach. That means being confident in my decisions, being proud of my accomplishments no matter how big or small, and standing strong in my convictions. By practicing these acts, it is easy for me to translate the same to my clients and hopefully promoting a positive change!
Contact Info:
- Email: katrina@southbrowardtherapy.com
- Website: https://www.southbrowardtherapy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katrinatherapy/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Katrina-Lorenzo-MS-108528027187854
- Other: https://cwcsf.com/staff/katrina-lorenzo-m-s/
