Faced with a rising need for mental health and substance misuse care, Lakeview Center has grown with our community since 1954. Each year, we serve more than 29,000 adults and children in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties.
Some of these stories of growth and success – for our team members and those we serve – are below.
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When Tonia’s daughter, Kaci, was sixteen years old, everyday life began to feel overwhelming. Kaci was struggling with trauma, depression and intense fear that often kept her isolated in her bedroom. “She was afraid to leave the house or even be around people,” Tonia shared. “Her doctor and school both referred us for help, and […]
As mental health needs continue to rise across Northwest Florida, strong community partnerships play a critical role in expanding access to care. For Hong Potomski, recently named Northwest Market President for Florida Blue, the organization’s partnership with Lakeview Center reflects a shared commitment to improving health and well‑being across the region. What continues to resonate […]
As a teenager, Ramzi had already endured more emotional turmoil than many adults face in a lifetime. Growing up in a home shaped by a mentally and verbally abusive figure, Ramzi didn’t realize how deeply the trauma had taken root. “I didn’t realize how much mental abuse he had given me—PTSD,” he shared. As life […]
Legacy of giving For seven decades, Jewelers Trade Shop has been a trusted name in the Pensacola community—known not just for fine craftsmanship and beautiful jewelry, but for a commitment to giving back. Since opening its doors in 1956, the family-owned business has woven philanthropy into its identity, Today, Jewelers Trade Shop’s generosity continues to […]
Pensacola, Fla. (Dec. 10, 2025) – Lakeview Center, Northwest Florida’s most comprehensive behavioral health provider, has been awarded $567,305 from Covenant Care Foundation to sustain essential psychiatry services for uninsured adults living with mental illness and substance use disorders. The grant will provide funding and support for three psychiatric nurse practitioners, who will provide care […]
For many mothers battling addiction, recovery often comes with an unbearable cost—being separated from their children. At the JoAnn Birge Women and Children’s Center in Walton County, moms get the chance to heal while staying with their babies, creating space for recovery and reunification. For Sara, that chance meant everything. Sara began struggling with addiction […]
Compassion has always been at the heart of Heather Landry’s career. With a bachelor’s degree in special education and a passion for helping vulnerable populations, Heather joined Lakeview Center nearly three years ago, beginning her work in children’s residential services. “I’ve always kind of had a heart for community service,” she said. “I used to […]
When 20-year-old Rikaylah began showing signs of bipolar disorder—something she had seen her father struggle with—her mother knew just what to do. She called 911, and Rikaylah was taken to Lakeview Center, the Central Receiving Facility for Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties. Individuals in mental health crisis come to Lakeview Center’s downtown Pensacola campus for […]
When Jasmin White first started at Lakeview Center in 2014, she thought it would be a short-term job. Instead, what started as “just a job” quickly grew into a calling. “I actually enjoyed the work and showing up every day,” Jasmin said. “When clients come back months later to check in and thank me, it’s […]
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