Meet Flor Aponte | LCSW-S

We had the good fortune of connecting with Flor Aponte and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Flor, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own therapy practice was deeply rooted in my passion for helping people and creating a space where clients could feel truly heard and supported. I wanted to offer a personalized approach that might not always be possible in larger organizations.

I also recognized the growing need for accessible mental health services and felt that by running my own practice, I could have the flexibility to design services tailored to diverse needs and make a more significant impact. Additionally, starting my business allowed me to align my professional values with the way the practice operates, fostering both ethical care and professional fulfillment.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Safe Mind Space Counseling Group was founded with the vision of creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where clients can feel empowered to work through life’s challenges. What sets us apart is our collaborative and personalized approach to therapy. As clinicians, we prioritize tailoring our services to meet the unique needs of each individual while fostering a warm and compassionate space for healing.

One of the aspects we are most proud of is the positive impact we’ve had on our clients and community. Seeing lives change, relationships improve, and individuals rediscover their strength is the most rewarding part of what we do. We’re also excited about expanding our reach and continuing to normalize conversations around mental health.

Getting to where we are today has been a journey of determination, learning, and growth. It wasn’t easy—there were challenges such as navigating the complexities of running a business, building a client base, and balancing professional and personal commitments. However, we overcame these challenges through teamwork, community support, and staying focused on our mission.

Some of the biggest lessons we’ve learned are the importance of persistence, adaptability, and the power of genuine connections. Building a practice is not just about offering a service—it’s about fostering trust and relationships that truly make a difference.

What we want the world to know about Safe Mind Space Counseling Group is that we are here to be a source of hope and healing. Our story is one of resilience, passion, and commitment to mental wellness. We are not just a business; we are a partner in helping others lead more fulfilling lives.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
“If my best friend were visiting, here’s how I’d show them the best of the area:

Day 1: Welcome & Relaxation
We’d start with a leisurely brunch at a cozy local café, then spend the afternoon exploring Memorial Park. It’s perfect for a peaceful walk or a bike ride. Dinner would be at a great spot downtown, like a rooftop restaurant with views of the city skyline.

Day 2: Space & Science
A visit to NASA is a must! We’d spend the day exploring the fascinating exhibits and learning about space exploration. For dinner, we’d head to a seafood spot near Galveston Bay to enjoy fresh, local dishes with a waterfront view.

Day 3: Shopping & Fun
We’d dedicate the day to retail therapy at Baybrook Mall, where there’s something for everyone. Afterward, we’d visit the Baybrook Farmers Market to pick up some local goodies and enjoy live music or food trucks. Dinner would be casual and fun at one of the mall’s trendy eateries.

Day 4: Wildlife & Nature
The Houston Zoo would be our main stop for the day—it’s always fun to connect with nature and learn about wildlife. Later, we’d take a stroll through Downtown Houston, exploring its parks, art installations, and hidden gems. Dinner downtown would feature some of the city’s best Tex-Mex or barbecue.

Day 5: Galveston Getaway
We’d spend the day in Galveston, walking along the beach, visiting the historic district, and maybe taking a harbor tour. Lunch would be at a seafood shack with fresh Gulf flavors. In the evening, we’d watch the sunset over the bay.

Day 6: Parks & Trails
A morning hike or jog in Memorial Park would be refreshing. Then we’d explore local trails or head back to downtown for a museum visit. Dinner would be at a spot with a relaxed vibe to wind down the day.

Day 7: Farewell Fun
We’d revisit any favorite spots from the trip and enjoy a farewell meal together at a scenic location. I’d send them off with souvenirs from the farmers market or unique finds from our adventures.

This area offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether it’s space exploration at NASA or enjoying the vibrant local scene downtown, there’s always something exciting to do!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The success of Safe Mind Space Counseling Group is a testament to the teamwork and dedication of its two owners and clinicians, Flor Aponte and Quintara Spencer Vallaire. We are also deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our clients and the community, whose trust and encouragement inspire us daily.

Website: https://safemindspacecg.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safemindspacecounselinggroup/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557338631311

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/safe-mind-space-counseling-group-houston