Recognizing Kaitlyn Berleth

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor one of my constituents, Kaitlyn Berleth, Therapist and Lead Clinician at You Thrive Children's Advocacy Center, for her exceptional service to some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Ms. Berleth has made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of child abuse victims through compassionate, skilled, and trauma-informed therapeutic care. In her role, she provides ongoing trauma therapy while also delivering critical crisis intervention services--offering immediate emotional support and stabilization to children and families during some of the most difficult moments they will ever face, Her calm presence, clinical expertise, and unwavering professionalism create a safe and steady environment in times of acute distress.

Kaitlyn approaches each child with patience, empathy, and clinical excellence, meeting them where they are emotionally and developmentally. By utilizing evidence-based trauma therapy techniques, she helps children build healthy coping skills, emotional regulation, and resilience--tools that positively shape their lives far beyond the therapy room. In addition to serving children, Ms. Berleth provides therapeutic support to adult survivors of sexual abuse. She fosters an empowering and respectful space where individuals can process trauma, reclaim their sense of agency, and move toward long-term healing. She also offers vital guidance and reassurance to caregivers, helping families navigate the complex journey of recovery. Families consistently express gratitude for her compassion, professionalism, and steadfast commitment.

Mr. Speaker, the strength of our Nation is reflected in professionals who dedicate their lives to serving others with integrity and selflessness. Kaitlyn Berleth embodies the mission of You Thrive Children's Advocacy Center and the highest ideals of community service. It is clear that her work has made an extraordinary and deeply positive difference in countless lives. For these reasons, I am proud to recognize Kaitlyn Berleth as a 2026 Hero Among Us for Florida's 12th Congressional District and commend her for her outstanding service.

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