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Three Months Into Private Practice as a Therapist in Naples, FL: A Gratitude-Filled Reflection

Vitor de Souza, a therapist in Naples, Florida, sitting in his private practice office at Pro Counselors.


Wow — I can’t believe it has already been three full months since launching Pro Counselors. Time truly flies. For my very first blog post, I wanted to pause, breathe, and reflect on what these early months have been like both personally and professionally.


Ever since I decided to become a therapist back in high school (around 2013), I’ve always imagined myself in private practice. Of course, I didn’t really know what that meant at the time, but I always pictured myself doing my own thing and building something meaningful. As I moved through my psychology degrees, I learned more about what private practice actually involves — and the dream only grew.


But it wasn’t until starting graduate school, launching the Student Counselor podcast, and growing my Instagram community that everything started to make sense. That podcast became a space where I shared my journey as a counseling student, talked about what I was learning, and connected with people who understood the process. For those who have been with me since those early days — thank you. And for those who are new here, welcome. That community made me feel empowered to pursue this dream even when it felt intimidating. I interviewed counseling students and licensed professionals across the country, all of whom reinforced my belief that private practice was not only possible, but aligned with who I am.


Fast-forward to today — and here I am. Pro Counselors is completing its third full month in business, right around Thanksgiving, which feels fitting. This season is all about gratitude, and I have so much to be thankful for.


I’m grateful for everyone who supported me along the way: loved ones, friends, peers, supervisors, colleagues, and this online community. I’m deeply passionate about this work and truly enjoy helping my clients grow and reach their goals.


Even in just three months, I’ve learned so much.

On the business side, I’ve navigated opening an LLC, building a website, marketing (both online and in person), and everything that comes with being a new business owner.

On the clinical side, running my own private practice has brought challenges, opportunities, and so much growth. I’ve had full control over my treatment planning, I’ve already supported clients through meaningful transitions, and I’ve gained clinical experience that feels even deeper than during my internship. Every bit of growth I experience becomes growth and empowerment I pass along to my clients.


I also couldn’t do this without the continued support of my site supervisor and qualified supervisor — truly, thank you. And of course, being a therapist who goes to therapy myself is a huge part of staying grounded, regulated, and able to show up for my clients with clarity.




Looking for a Therapist in Florida? Let’s Connect.



If you’re seeking a therapist in Naples, FL — or virtually anywhere in Florida — I’d love to meet you. I offer a free phone consultation so we can get to know each other and see if we’re the right fit.


I provide therapy for:


  • Adolescents, young adults, and emerging professionals

  • Individuals navigating anxiety, identity, relationships, and life transitions

  • Therapy students who need support while balancing grad school, internship, and everything that comes with becoming a counselor



My goal is to help clients gain clarity, build resilience, and live in alignment with their values.

I hope to offer you the same type of empowerment that has shaped my own journey.


→ To learn more about therapy services for Florida residents, visit the Therapy page.




Considering a Career in Mental Health? I Also Support Counseling Students.



Alongside my therapy work, I also offer consulting services for counseling and mental health students across the country. If you’re navigating graduate school, searching for internships, or preparing for interviews, I’m here to support you.


I currently provide:


  • Resume review and resume creation

  • Internship search support

  • Interview preparation

  • 1:1 coaching for students who need guidance through their program


These services are designed to help student counselors feel more confident, organized, and empowered throughout their academic and professional journey. *Consulting services offered by Pro Counselors are not clinical therapy and do not constitute a therapeutic relationship. These services are designed solely for educational, career, and professional development purposes. Clients who engage in consultation services may not be eligible to receive therapy through Pro Counselors in order to maintain appropriate professional boundaries and adhere to licensing regulations.


→ To explore these services, visit the Consulting page.



Thank you all — and happy Thanksgiving.

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