Patricia is an accomplished mental health therapist, community advocate, and leader with a deep passion for restorative healing and empowerment. She holds an Associate of Arts degree in Psychology, as well as both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in social work from Barry University School of Social Work. During her academic journey, she served as President of the Student Social Work Association (SSWA). She graduated as valedictorian of her undergraduate program and salutatorian of her master’s program, finishing in the top three percent of her class. Her achievements have been widely recognized, including being named the NASW Social Work Student of the Year in both 2022 and 2023, receiving the 2023 Dean’s Honors Award, and being honored by the Chapman Partnership as the 2023 Success Story at its "Take a Walk in Her Shoes" celebration.
Professionally, Patricia provides therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, with expertise in complex mental health conditions such as schizoaffective disorders, hallucinations, and neurocognitive disorders. She has significant experience supporting children on the autism spectrum and those with developmental delays, employing evidence-based interventions including CBT, DBT, and Structural Family Therapy.
Patricia also serves on the Advisory Board for Barry University’s School of Mental Health and Social Work’s Social Work program, where she contributes to fostering academic excellence and professional growth. Beyond her clinical work, she is an inspiring mentor, speaker, and advocate who leads outreach in correctional facilities, providing trauma-informed support and motivational guidance to incarcerated individuals.
As the founder of Healing Hearts to Freedom, a nonprofit organization, Patricia offers mental health services, mentorship, and empowerment programs for girls and young women who have experienced trauma and sexual exploitation. In her role as a Deaconess at New Harvest Church, she leads youth programs and women’s healing groups, including Wonder Woman Wednesdays, which focus on personal growth, self-love, and spiritual development.
Through her diverse work, Patricia integrates clinical expertise, academic leadership, spiritual guidance, and community engagement to foster healing, purpose, and transformation. We are confident that her vision, dedication, and leadership will greatly benefit NASW–FL and the Miami-Dade social work community.
Congratulations Ms. Denson on this well-deserved appointment!