Meet Ericka Cardoso | LMHC & CEO

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

Hi Ericka, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Synergy Wellness Centers is dedicated to improving mental health and overall well-being by providing high-quality, culturally sensitive, and accessible care to individuals and families in our community. We recognize the unique challenges faced by minorities, including Hispanic populations, individuals with language barriers, and the LGBTQ+ community, and we are committed to ensuring that mental health services are inclusive, equitable, and tailored to diverse needs.

Our bilingual and multicultural team provides services in both English and Spanish, breaking down language barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking care. We also offer culturally sensitive programs that respect and integrate the values, traditions, and experiences of our diverse clients, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding in therapy.

For the LGBTQ+ community, we create a safe and affirming environment where individuals can explore their identities, navigate challenges, and receive support without fear of discrimination. Our therapists are trained in gender-affirming care and LGBTQ+-inclusive practices to ensure that every client feels seen, respected, and valued.

Additionally, we recognize that financial hardship should never be a barrier to mental health care. That’s why we provide pro bono services for individuals who cannot afford treatment, ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality support, regardless of their economic situation.

By integrating evidence-based therapies with a holistic approach to wellness, Synergy Wellness Centers empowers individuals from all backgrounds to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives, reducing mental health disparities and strengthening the overall well-being of our community.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Being a mental health counselor is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my life. Every day, I have the privilege of helping individuals and families navigate their challenges, build resilience, and improve their well-being. What truly sets me apart in this field is my culturally sensitive approach, shaped by my personal and professional experiences.

I was born in Colombia and moved to the United States at the age of 11, growing up immersed in both cultures. This dual perspective has been invaluable in my work, especially when supporting immigrant families. I deeply understand the challenges of language barriers, cultural identity conflicts, and generational gaps that often exist between parents and children. My ability to relate to both perspectives allows me to bridge that gap, fostering communication, understanding, and healing within families.

Beyond my cultural background, being both a daughter and a mother gives me a unique advantage when working with youth and families. I don’t just understand family dynamics from a clinical standpoint—I live them every day. This allows me to bring a deep level of sympathy and empathy into my work, strengthening the connections I build with clients.

My passion for mental health extends beyond clinical practice. I am also the founder of Brighter Days Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping youth and their families in vulnerable communities access mental health services and support. Through this initiative, I am committed to reducing barriers to care and ensuring that those who need help the most can receive it, regardless of their financial situation.

In addition to my expertise in mental health, I have a strong background in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a scientific approach that enhances my ability to assess and address behavioral challenges from multiple perspectives. This allows me to develop well-rounded, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.

As a woman and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I also understand the complexities of personal identity, societal challenges, and the need for safe, affirming spaces. My lived experiences fuel my drive to provide inclusive and compassionate care to clients from all walks of life.

The journey to where I am today hasn’t always been easy. I’ve faced challenges—self-doubt, financial obstacles, and the pressure of balancing multiple roles—but my commitment to my purpose and passion has always guided me forward. Every challenge has reinforced my dedication to making mental health services more accessible, culturally sensitive, and impactful.

What I want the world to know about me and my work is this: Mental health is a right, not a privilege. Everyone deserves access to care, understanding, and support. Through Synergy Wellness Centers and Brighter Days Foundation, I am committed to breaking barriers, fostering connections, and making a lasting impact in the lives of those I serve.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Ultimate Miami Weeklong Itinerary

If my best friend were visiting Miami, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable time by exploring the city’s diverse gastronomy, iconic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and incredible entertainment scene. Miami is more than just beaches—it’s a cultural melting pot with something for everyone.

Day 1: Exploring Wynwood & Downtown Vibes
• Breakfast at Zak the Baker – One of the best spots for fresh pastries and amazing coffee in Wynwood.
• Wynwood Walls & Street Art – Walking through this outdoor art museum is a must, with its colorful murals, galleries, and trendy boutiques.
• Lunch at Bakan – Authentic Mexican food with the best guacamole and mezcal selection.
• Bayside Marketplace & Boat Tour – A little shopping, drinks by the bay, and a speedboat tour to see the celebrity mansions on Star Island.
• Dinner at Komodo – A high-energy Asian fusion spot with a beautiful ambiance in Brickell.
• Drinks at Sugar – A rooftop bar with incredible skyline views, perfect for ending the night in style.

Day 2: Iconic South Beach & Ocean Drive
• Morning at South Beach – Start with a sunrise walk along the famous white sands and turquoise waters.
• Brunch at The Front Porch Café – Delicious and laid-back, perfect for a beach morning.
• Ocean Drive & Art Deco District – Walking along Ocean Drive, stopping for a piña colada at the famous Palace Bar.
• Afternoon at Nikki Beach – A chic beach club with great vibes, music, and cocktails.
• Dinner at Carbone or Joe’s Stone Crab – For a fine dining experience with the best Italian or seafood in town.
• Night Out at LIV or Mango’s – Either go full luxury at LIV nightclub or keep it tropical with live music and dancers at Mango’s on Ocean Drive.

Day 3: Calle Ocho & Little Havana
• Breakfast at Versailles – A Cuban classic, with the best cafecito and pastelitos.
• Strolling Calle Ocho – Stopping at Ball & Chain for live salsa music and Domino Park to watch the old-timers play.
• Lunch at Café La Trova – Amazing Cuban food and cocktails crafted by award-winning bartenders.
• Ice Cream at Azucar – A must-try, with unique flavors like Abuela Maria (guava, cream cheese, and Maria cookies).
• Dinner at Doce Provisions – A hidden gem for Latin fusion cuisine.
• Drinks & Dancing at Mayami – A lively Tulum-inspired restaurant with fire shows and a DJ.

Day 4: Hollywood Beach & Aventura
• Morning at Hollywood Beach Boardwalk – A relaxing beach day with a classic old-Florida vibe.
• Lunch at GG’s Waterfront – Fresh seafood and a perfect view of the Intracoastal.
• Shopping at Aventura Mall – One of the best malls in the country, with luxury stores and great restaurants.
• Dinner at Papi Steak – If they’re in the mood for a VIP dining experience with top-quality steaks.
• Drinks at The Wilder in Fort Lauderdale – A chic speakeasy-style cocktail lounge.

Day 5: Sports & Live Music
• Miami Heat Game (if in season) – Catching the action at the Kaseya Center is always a good time!
• If not, Marlins or Dolphins game – Depending on the season, watching a baseball or football game is a great Miami experience.
• Dinner at Kyu – A fantastic Asian grill with mouthwatering dishes.
• Live Music Night! – Checking out if Chicky Lulo is hosting an event, or going to hear incredible DJs like DJ Zehno, DJ Aylin, Citizen Jane, or JJ Drums setting the vibe with Afro-Caribbean beats.

Day 6: LGBTQ+ Scene & Nightlife
• Brunch at R House in Wynwood – A drag brunch with amazing performances and bottomless drinks.
• Afternoon at Haulover Sandbar – Renting a boat and chilling in the clear waters, Miami-style.
• Dinner at Mila – A stunning rooftop restaurant with Mediterranean-Asian fusion and a show-stopping ambiance.
• LGBTQ+ Night Out – If events like Amavi, Pandora, She Life, or LezChic are happening, we are definitely going! Miami has an amazing queer nightlife scene, and these events always bring the best vibes.

Day 7: Relax & Recharge
• Breakfast at Greenstreet Café – The best pancakes and chill vibes in Coconut Grove.
• Spa Day at The Standard – A perfect way to unwind with a massage, sauna, and oceanfront pool.
• Sunset at Monty’s South Beach – A casual spot for fresh seafood and a killer view.
• Farewell Dinner at Sexy Fish or Prime 112 – One last unforgettable dining experience before wrapping up the trip.

Miami is all about energy, culture, food, music, and diversity—and I’d make sure my best friend experiences it all!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
If there’s one person who deserves the biggest shoutout in my journey, it’s my mother, Miudis Diaz-Archibold. She has been my #1 fan and my backbone since day one—believing in me even when I doubted myself, celebrating my triumphs with pure joy, and always offering honest feedback to help me grow.

What makes her presence in my life so powerful isn’t just her unwavering support, but the unconditional positive regard and love she has shown me through every challenge and success. She has never wavered in her belief that I could achieve my dreams, and that kind of faith is something truly priceless.

Beyond being my biggest cheerleader, she has also been my greatest teacher—instilling in me the resilience, compassion, and determination that have shaped both my business and my life. Without her, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. My mom is, without a doubt, a key reason for my success, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Website: https://Synergywellnessc.com

Instagram: Synergywellnessc

Facebook: Synergywellnessc

Other: https://Brighterdaysfi.org

Image Credits
Tatiana Escobar – twist Media productions
Yammy Casado -ycasadophography (soccer team girls pic)