Dr. TOMASA VILLARONGA
Lakeland,FL
Summary
Transformational leader and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), currently serving as Executive Director of a residential substance abuse treatment facility for women, overseeing 24/7 operations, budget, and cross-functional teams. Proven record of leading through operational excellence, cultural transformation, strategic planning, and sustainable growth.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
Bridges International
Auburndale, Florida
09.2024 - Current
- Provide executive leadership and oversight for a Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Program serving women.
- Manage 24/7 operations, employees, clients, and budget.
- Drive operational excellence by enhancing efficiency and service delivery, while maintaining strict safety and compliance standards.
- Embody transformational and servant leadership, fostering staff engagement, mentorship, and high performance.
- Collaborate with community partners and industry stakeholders to expand services and strengthen organizational reputation.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Private Practice
Lakeland, FL
09.2022 - 02.2025
- Conducted individual counseling sessions to support client mental health needs.
- Apply person-centered, client-first strategies to improve client satisfaction and outcomes.
- Maintained accurate and confidential client records using electronic health systems..
- Demonstrate entrepreneurial leadership by managing private practice operations, client engagement, and business development.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
BayCare
Winter Haven, Florida
11.2019 - 12.2022
- Delivered individual therapy, crisis intervention, and case management services.
- Facilitated collaborative environments for growth and recovery.
- Administer biopsychosocial assessments as required
- Provide services both in-office and within community settings
Counselor/Reach Therapist
PACE Center for Girls
Lakeland, FL
06.2018 - 05.2019
- Provided therapy, case management, and crisis intervention for school-aged girls.
- Facilitated psychoeducational groups, developing curricula to improve life skills and resilience.
- Consulted with teachers, parents, and agency partners to coordinate care—demonstrating early stakeholder management skills.
- Supported program leadership by contributing to eligibility assessments, enrollment decisions, and program planning.
Intern/Counselor/Counselor Coord./Program Director
Zoe's Journey
Lakeland, FL
11.2014 - 07.2016
- Progressed through increasing levels of responsibility, demonstrating leadership, clinical expertise, and program oversight.
- As Intern: Assisted with counseling sessions, assessments, and administrative duties.
- As Counselor: Provided individual and group therapy, case management, and crisis intervention.
- As Counseling Coordinator: Oversaw counseling staff, coordinated treatment planning, and ensured program compliance.
- As Program Director: Directed daily operations, supervised staff and interns, managed budgets, and implemented program improvements.
Education
Doctorate - Strategic Leadership
Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL12-2025
Master of Science - Professional Counseling
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ07-2015
Associate of Arts - Sociology
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL05-2011
Skills
- Team leadership
- Strategic planning
- Client counseling
- Community outreach
- Organizational development
- Team management
- Problem resolution
- Customer service
- Cultural awareness
- Task prioritization
- Consulting
Affiliations
- Licensed Minister
- Ministry Leader
- Motivational Speaker
- Mentorship
Timeline
Executive Director
Bridges International
09.2024 - Current
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Private Practice
09.2022 - 02.2025
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
BayCare
11.2019 - 12.2022
Counselor/Reach Therapist
PACE Center for Girls
06.2018 - 05.2019
Intern/Counselor/Counselor Coord./Program Director
Zoe's Journey
11.2014 - 07.2016
Doctorate - Strategic Leadership
Southeastern University
Master of Science - Professional Counseling
Grand Canyon University
Associate of Arts - Sociology
University of South Florida