Industrial & Organizational Psychologist
Dr. Patricia Engelhardt’s career is an inspiring testament to dedication, expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing mental health counseling and workplace well-being. With over four decades of professional experience, she has established herself as an influential leader in both organizational psychology and mental health advocacy.
Dr. Engelhardt began her distinguished career in the United States Air Force, serving as a Non-Commissioned officer from 1974 to 1979 and a Commissioned Officer from 1981-1992. Her exceptional leadership and contributions were recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Joint Service Commendation Medal. Her time in the Air Force not only helped shape her professional foundation but also fueled her passion for serving others.
Following her military service, Dr. Engelhardt channeled her expertise into various roles. From 1992 to 2003, she served as the president of Engelhardt Business Services Inc. Simultaneously, she helped create the Restorative Juvenile Justice Program housed within the 20th Judicial Circuit of Florida. During this period, she gained valuable insight into program development, management, and providing mental health solutions.
Her dedication to community health continued as she took on the role of a child and family community-based mental health counselor at BayCare Health Systems between 2003 and 2006. This was followed by significant contributions as a psychotherapist and outpatient program and clinic manager at The Apalachee Center from 2006 to 2008.
Dr. Engelhardt’s multifaceted career also included her time with the Florida Department of State as a statewide low-income, rural outreach, and public information specialist. She further extended her expertise as an adjunct psychology instructor at South Florida State College, mentoring and inspiring future mental health professionals.
Dr. Engelhardt’s impressive career is underscored by her commitment to lifelong learning. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in media communications from the University of Central Florida in 1981. This was followed by a Master of Science in counseling and human development from Troy University in 1985. Her academic journey culminated in 2016 with a Doctor of Philosophy in industrial and organizational psychology from Capella University.
Complementing her academic achievements, Dr. Engelhardt became a certified mental health counselor in the State of Florida in 2005, ensuring her ability to provide the highest level of care and expertise in her field. She remains actively involved in professional organizations, including the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology Inc., and the American Psychological Association.
Since 2017, Dr. Engelhardt has thrived as an organizational psychologist and independent consultant, focusing on improving workplace health and productivity. Her work bridges mental health expertise with organizational dynamics, enabling businesses to function more effectively while prioritizing employee well-being. Concurrently, between 2020 and 2021, she served as a mental health therapist at the Mental Health Center of Florida, further cementing her status as a versatile and impactful professional.
Dr. Engelhardt’s tenure as a management and program analyst for the United States Department of Defense between 2017 and 2020 showcased her ability to integrate her mental health expertise into large-scale governmental operations, significantly contributing to operational efficiency and workplace health of transitioning military Servicemembers and their families from active service to civilian life.
Dr. Engelhardt’s influence extends beyond her professional achievements. She is the founder of the Coalition of Forces for Veterans, Connecting the Red, White and Blue, a platform dedicated to supporting military veterans. She has also served as a board officer for a $2 million homeowner association, a founding board member of the Tender Loving Care Complex Inc., and a volunteer leader with the American Red Cross.
Her contributions have been consistently recognized, and she remains particularly proud of creating the Military Veterans Initiative. This groundbreaking program connected the Department of Defense with the Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychologists, underscoring her ability to unite sectors for a greater cause.
As Dr. Engelhardt reflects on her career, she credits much of her success to her Christian faith, which has guided her dedication to service and her commitment to making a meaningful impact. Moving forward, she aims to expand her influence by writing extensively, delivering speaking engagements, and mentoring the next generation of mental health and organizational psychology professionals.
Dr. Engelhardt’s unwavering commitment to her field and her community is a source of inspiration to all those who work alongside her or benefit from her vast expertise. With her ongoing efforts, she continues to leave an indelible mark on the fields of mental health, organizational psychology, and beyond.