About Me

       

     After years of working in marketing and sales, I realized that life is too short not to follow my passion. I took a risk and quit my stable job to pursue a life long dream to become a therapist. I earned a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and became licensed as a marriage and family therapist.


     My private practice is located in Mission Viejo, CA where I work with individuals, couples and families, including children, teens and seniors. Prior to establishing my private practice I was fortunate enough to work in a psychiatric hospital, domestic violence shelter, grief support organization, Orange County foster care system, and in various inpatient and outpatient counseling centers. I am a member of the Orange County Trauma Resource Network where I volunteer and assists individuals in the aftermath of a traumatic event in the community. I am a member of several professional organizations, and host and attend regular consultation groups with my peers. I also mentor and work with students studying to be therapists.

     

      I am married and we have two adult daughters and two dogs (that we also consider our kids). While reading to my girls when they were young, I was inspired to write and publish two children's books on the topics of grief and self-esteem. One of my books was featured and promoted by Dr. Laura on her radio show. It is my faith and family that keeps me grounded for the work that I do. During my free time I enjoy practicing hot yoga, making jewelry, painting using acrylic paint pouring techniques, taking naps and reading books that challenge and inspire me.


"Willie's Reflection, A Story of Grief, Hope and Healing"

Patricia Zielinski M.A., LMFT

Licensed Marriage &Family Therapist/Certified EMDR Therapist

(949) 433-8949



     Sam and Willie meet each summer morning at Long River to fish, skip pebbles on the water and sip grape sodas. Without warning, the cherished friendship ends when Willie dies. Readers will follow Sam on his journey through the stages of grief. Discover how Sam finds a way to say goodbye to Willie, and eventually holds his friend's memory in his heart. It is only then that Sam is able to reinvest in a promising new friendship.

     The topic of grief is presented in a clear and gentle manner. Brilliant color illustrations reveal the intensity of feelings as experienced by a grieving child. Practical suggestions are offered to those who care for and work with children experiencing a loss.

     "Grandma Pearl and I have an unspoken secret about an oyster shell box of pearls on my dresser. Every time I struggle or have tears, a pearl appears in the most unexpected place. One day I asked Grandma to explain the many pearl surprises and she told me the story of how an oyster survives. It forms a pearl inside to stay alive. I smiled. I knew she was teaching me something important in life."

      In this heartwarming tale, a young girl discovers that courage and character can come out of life struggles. She begins to understand that we are all like pearls, imperfect yet precious and uniquely beautiful.

"Grandma Pearl, A Story About Inner Beauty"

        Phone: (949) 433-8949  /  Email: therapy@patriciazielinski.com

26431 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 260

Mission Viejo, CA 92691