In order to succeed, people need a sense of self-efficacy, to struggle together with resilience to meet the inevitable obstacles and inequities of life.

 I have worked with Mr. O’Connor since the beginning of my career at the VA and have seen him overcome many challenges and adversities with great professionalism, a passion for growth and a spirit of gratitude. He is a down to earth professional who takes great pride in what he does. 

 Mr. O’Connor has been a tremendous advocate and an asset for the veteran community.  He has proven to be a leader who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them. Christopher has also been an example to many other veteran based organizations and has successfully demonstrated leadership ability by counseling those he comes in contact with. His advice and empathetic approach has been a great help to others, many of whom have taken time to share their comments with me regarding his pleasant and encouraging attitude.

Throughout his educational journey he remained an active volunteer with the Orlando VAMC, educating veterans on their benefits and doing several professional speaking engagements and educational workshops to educate the community on the needs of returning veterans and to motivate and inspire his fellow wounded service members. In 2014 he was asked to speak at the NASW National Conference in Washington DC where he shared his personal transition from Warfighter to Social Worker on stage in front of a national audience, while sharing the stage with many political and professional experts speaking on Social Work. 

While Mr. O’Connor has been in school he has ranked among the top of his class. Prior to pursing an education, Mr. O’Connor was a Marine who was seriously injured in Iraq. His injuries earned him a Purple Heart Medal – but his spirit and passion carried him through it and continue to do so. He motivates and inspires anyone he meets with a message of hope. Most of us are fortunate to not be severely wounded and cannot come close to doing some of the things Mr. O’Connor has accomplished.  

I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Chris O'Connor for any endeavor he pursues in the field of psychology and organizational development. Having had the privilege of working closely with Dr. O'Connor for several years, I have witnessed firsthand his exceptional ability to positively impact individuals' mental health recovery needs and to guide and build organizations towards greater success.

Dr. O'Connor's dedication to his patients is unparalleled. His compassionate and empathetic approach creates a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered to embark on their journey towards mental wellness. His deep understanding of psychological principles combined with his innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life make him an invaluable asset in any therapeutic setting.

Moreover, Dr. O'Connor possesses a rare talent for organizational leadership and development. His strategic vision, coupled with his strong communication and interpersonal skills, enable him to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and growth within teams and organizations. He has a proven track record of implementing effective policies and initiatives that enhance both the well-being of employees and the overall performance of the organization.

In addition to his clinical expertise and leadership abilities, Dr. O'Connor is a lifelong learner committed to staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in the field. His dedication to ongoing professional development ensures that he consistently delivers the highest quality of care and remains at the forefront of advancements in psychology and organizational management.

In conclusion, I have the utmost confidence in Dr. Chris O'Connor's abilities and character. He is not only an exceptional psychologist but also a visionary leader who is capable of effecting meaningful change in the lives of individuals and the organizations he serves. I wholeheartedly endorse him for any opportunity he may pursue, knowing that he will exceed expectations and make a lasting impact wherever he goes.

Dr. Chris O'Connor, a friend of mine who I've known through the brotherhood of being a combat veteran in the United States Marine Corps as well as our journey in sobriety.

I first met Chris in the rooms of sobriety where I was impressed by his honesty and integrity. He's a man who knows and owns his past and is working to be a good father, husband and of service to others.

He and I have had private conversations where we have, in a pro bono nature, helped people on the Saint Petersburg pier, giving guidance to those who are struggling. Chris is a man who thrives off service to others.

If you didn't know Chris had his PhD, you wouldn't know by him bragging about it or “slipping” it into conversation. He's a man of humility who has gained knowledge to leverage effectiveness and not wear it as a superficial token of authority.  

We all have a story, and so does Chris, and in our talks together, he's aware of his shortcomings and areas that he should have made different choices. Everybody has a past, but it's what you do with your past that defines you. I have seen Chris work diligently in self-reflection and growth to evolve into the man who I “call my friend,” trust and respect.   

I recall a period in my life where I needed someone to give me a chance.  A Judge, seeing my honorable discharge and combat action in Desert Storm, gave me that chance.  I am forever grateful.  I did not let that Judge down.  

Chris’ Purple Heart speaks for itself to his service to our country.  

I can recommend Chris without reservation in a position of service to others, professional growth, and leadership.  

I first met Chris in 2004, shortly after returning from deployment to Haiti. Chris was new Marine that just graduated the School of Infantry as a machine gunner. Very quickly he stood out in our platoon as being someone that cared deeply for his job and the training which laid ahead in preparation toward his first deployment that would operate in Fallujah, Iraq. 

His character then, throughout his military career which abruptly ended after an IED detonated beneath him while on patrol, and continues to this day, remains to be remarkable, forward thinking and inspiring. There are very few people that I could trust with my or my family's life both in and out of combat. 

His dedication to the morale and mental well-being of his former Marines, as well as the Veteran service members with whom he engaged during his work at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs in Central Florida, or while counseling beyond his tenure, remarkable and humbling. Knowing that Chris continues to serve his community in the manner in which he has, cannot be unrecognized or non-contagious. 

 Since I enjoy reviewing other PhD-level work, I "pestered" Christopher until he finally released his survey to me to review prior to IRB approval (I am not a respondent, so this is not in any way a violation:-).

The very first question had me laughing. Not the normal reaction to a survey but he had, in my professional opinion, done such a marvelous job of crafting his survey that I found it entertaining! [I know, I am not normal!]

I am not military, but the question was not double barreled, but it was strategically dual use!!

Believe me, I have taken and reviewed and even translated and back translated many surveys and had classes with Sivo and studied Don A. Dillman.

I am no nincompoop when it comes to surveys. I can recognize good survey design when I see it.

Even discounting the halo and primacy effects, the remainder of the items were well done although not without minor flaws.

They had no apparent lack of face validity. Also, the item options were comprehensive--they covered all legitimately conceivable scenarios (which is rare for a survey to meet my high standards in that arena!)

I have had the privilege of working closely with Dr. O’Connor for 3 years at Dr. Paul’s by the Sea (Spencer Recovery Centers).], where he has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, ethical conduct, and commitment to the well-being of our clients. He has a strong work ethic, a keen understanding of counseling principles, and an unwavering dedication to maintaining the highest standards in our field.

During his time with us, Dr. O’Connor has exhibited excellent interpersonal skills, fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere within our team. He has consistently demonstrated empathy, active listening, and a genuine desire to help others. His ability to connect with clients and create a safe and trusting environment has been commendable.

I have worked alongside Mr. O’Connor in my capacity as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor at the Spencer’s Recovery Center in St. Petersburg, Florida. I would rate Christopher O’Connor’s overall performance and capabilities as exceptional. 

Christopher O’Connor has a very positive attitude and truly embraces learning. He is someone who used their lived experience and skills learned in training to help others achieve and maintain  recovery and wellness from mental health and/or substance use conditions. 

I had the absolute honor and pleasure of working with Chris while he was with Goodwill Industries of Central Florida. I am honored to continue our relationship by being involved in projects that he leads with The Mission Continues. 

It is rare that you come across standout and standup talent like Chris. Chris is a focused and dedicated team member and leader who works tirelessly to accomplish his mission and his goals. As a team member or a leader, Chris earns my heartfelt highest personal and professional recommendation! 

Over the span of 12 years or so.

During my relationship with Christopher O’Connor, I have experienced an individual who shows up earlier than asked, works hard, and carries themselves in a polite, respectable manner. In addition, he is exceptionally gifted at making others feel comfortable and always maintaining a positive attitude.  

Dr. O'Connor has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism and expertise.

Dr. O'Connor has effectively worked with clients presenting a diverse range of severe mental health disorders, chemical dependency, and addiction. His roles at our center include psychotherapist, group facilitator, family therapist, assessor, and case manager. In each of these capacities, he has shown a remarkable ability to deliver superior care and support to those in need.

His comprehensive skill set and deep commitment to client welfare have made a significant impact on our practice and the lives of our clients. Based on his exemplary performance and extensive experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. O'Connor for an exemption from disqualification due to his background screening. His professional integrity and dedication make him exceptionally qualified for this consideration.

Dr. O'Connor has exceeded all expectations since he joined our clinical staff in the position of therapist. Prior to this position, Dr. O'Connor had co-founded Trauma Anonymous in October of 2021. I highly recommend Dr. O'Connor for any position that allows him to use his experience & knowledge to help others. 

Christopher O'Connor’s, PhD, LCSW, CTP professionalism has been exceptional. Observing him working directly with clients/patients who present a multitude of severe mental health disorders, chemical dependency, and addiction(s) is

As a psychotherapist, group facilitator, family therapist, assessor, and case manager; Christopher 

O'Connor, PhD, LCSW, CTP, possesses the skills to provide superior care to our clients. With that, I highly 

recommend Christopher O'Connor, PhD, LCSW, CTP.