Murtha & Flischel CPAs Helps Businesses & Individuals Be Ready For Tax Time 

(L.-r.) Kyle Flischel and Tom & Patrick Murtha are the partners who have helped make Murtha & Flischel CPAs in the Seven Oaks Professional Park one of the most respected Certified Public Accounting firms in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. (Photo provided by Murtha & Flischel) 

For more than 14 years, Murtha & Flischel Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), have been a trusted name in the Wesley Chapel community. Known for dedication to personalized service and in-depth knowledge of accounting and tax laws, the firm has built a strong reputation as reliable partners for individuals and businesses alike. 

The story of Murtha & Flischel began back in 1997, when Thomas Murtha and Raymond Flischel founded the firm as Flischel, Murtha & Associates in Englewood, FL. Ray Flischel worked for more than 40 years before retiring. Tom Murtha is a seasoned CPA with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Management from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree in Accounting from St. John’s University in Queens, NY. Tom has nearly 40 years of experience in taxes, valuations, mergers and acquisitions, and has been a trusted advisor to many. He also taught accounting courses at Hillsborough Community College and for the American Institute of Banking for more than 15 years, helping shape the next generation of accountants. 

In 2009, Tom’s son Patrick helped Tom and Ray sell their Englewood firm and open a new office — Murtha & Murtha, LLC, in Tampa. In 2015, the firm moved to the Seven Oaks Professional Park (off Ancient Oaks Blvd., north of S.R. 56) in Wesley Chapel, where it continued to grow and thrive. Today, the firm has changed its name to Murtha & Flischel and has three partners, including Tom, Patrick and Ray’s son Kyle Flischel. 

Patrick and Kyle are both alumni of the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, where Patrick earned B.S. degrees in Finance and Accounting, in 2009 and 2015, respectively, while Kyle earned a B.S. degree in Accounting in 2011 and a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in  Accounting with a focus on taxes, in 2017. 

Murtha & Flischel offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of its clients. From preparing taxes to advising businesses on complex tax issues, the firm helps clients stay compliant and make the most of their financial opportunities. During tax season, Murtha & Flischel’s dedicated senior accountants — including Kaitlyn Kociba and Kaitlyn Little — work hard to assist clients. Both Kaitlyns started as interns and are now pursuing their CPA certifications. Junior accountants Jackie Moore and Tamara Daley also are valuable team members. 

“We’re excited to expand our team,” Patrick says, “and we plan to add two more junior accountants soon.” 

Client satisfaction is at the heart of everything the professionals at Murtha & Flischel do. The team’s personalized approach has earned the firm glowing reviews from its clients, as Murtha & Flischel has an overall 4.9 star (out of 5) rating on Google, with more than 115 reviews. Client Christina Helm shared in her 5-star rating: “It’s time we ALL quit slogging through TurboTax and never look back. From initial contact to my phone appointment with Kaitlyn Little to signing our return was about a month, with quick, accurate and professional communication, via phone, [by] email and on their app!” 

In addition to tax preparation, the firm offers bookkeeping and accounting services that help businesses keep their financial records accurate and organized. This allows Murtha & Flischel’s clients to make informed decisions and plan for growth. The firm also specializes in business valuations, tax planning and helping buyers and sellers navigate the process of mergers and acquisitions. 

“We started with mergers and acquisitions before expanding to other services,” Patrick says. 

A High-Flying Firm 
(L.-r.) Senior accountants Kaitlyn Kociba and Kaitlyn Little, partners Kyle Flischel and Patrick Murtha, office manager Lourdes (“Lou”) Alers, front office manager Sam Yates and staff accountant Tamara Daley can all be found at Murtha & Flischel’s Wesley Chapel office. (Photo by Charmaine George) 

Patrick and Kyle have both recently earned their pilot’s licenses. In 2023, Patrick received his license and in December of last year, he completed instrument reading. 

“Although we did it as a hobby, it has quickly become an essential part of our business,” Patrick says. “We had a client on the other side of the state, and where it would have taken us a few hours to get there, we were able to arrive in just under an hour and fly back home the same day. Flying saves us so much time and it makes it easier to provide hands-on support for our clients.” 

Another standout offering is Murtha & Flischel’s CFO (Chief Financial Officer) Retainer Package. This service provides businesses with ongoing financial oversight, including monthly accounting, budgeting and tax planning. It also includes advice about health insurance and retirement plans. Acting as an outsourced CFO — at a fraction of the cost of an in-house CFO — the firm helps businesses stay financially secure while preparing for long-term success. 

On TampaTaxFirm.com, the firm shares helpful articles under the “News and Articles” section. “We try to post relevant information that clients might find useful,” Patrick explains. Recent topics include the changes to federal and state tax laws for 2025 and guidance on the on-again, off-again BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) and FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network) compliance. While Murtha & Flischel doesn’t complete BOI filings for its clients, the firm does provide clear instructions on how to complete that filing yourself. 

“We want our clients to avoid fines and stay informed,” Patrick says, adding that although the requirement for businesses to file BOI was put on hold, it is possible it will become a requirement again at some point. 

“The process is quite simple,” Patrick adds. “It takes only a few minutes to file electronically.” He recommends business owners either go ahead and complete it just in case or make sure they keep an eye on updates through FinCEN.gov. 

This unwavering commitment to personalized service is what makes Murtha & Flischel stand out. “Our goal is to provide year-round support and timely responses to all client questions,” Patrick says. This dedication has earned the firm a loyal client base and a strong reputation in the local community. 

The firm also supports local initiatives and participates in community events. This dedication not only enhances the staff’s connection with clients but also underscores the role of a community-centric firm. 

Patrick and his wife Jennifer have three children — 10-year-old Thomas, Jack (age 9) and Audrey, 4. The family lives in Wesley Chapel and is very active in the local community, including the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel and the North Tampa Bay Chamber. Meanwhile, Kyle (who has been the president of a local Business Networking International chapter) and his wife Stephanie enjoy brewing beer as a hobby. 

The firm of Murtha & Flischel CPAs is located at 2236 Ashley Oaks Cir., Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel. The Zephyrhills office is located at 5315 8th St. 

For a free consultation or tips on tax filing, call (813) 991-1120, or visit TampaTaxFirm.com or any of Murtha & Flischel’s social media sites — Instagram.com/murthacpas, Facebook.com/TampaTaxFirm, or Linkedin.com/ company/murtha-and-flischel-certified-public-accountants.

Start 2025 Strong(er) With The Unique Training Options At Euro Pilates! 

Instructor Allison Martin leads a Reformer class at Euro Pilates, which is located just south of County Line Rd. off Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in New Tampa. (All photos by Charmaine George) 

The new year is here, and if your resolution is to prioritize your health and start 2025 on a strong note, Euro Pilates has the expertise and community support you need to improve your flexibility, strength and overall well-being. 

Euro Pilates, established in a different location in 2007 and now located behind Walgreens at the southeast corner of Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. and County Line Rd. in New Tampa, is a studio specializing in Pilates and flexibility training. Owner Maria Ivanova brings a wealth of experience to her role, having a background as a professional gymnast, as well as a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Sports Education & Movement from Moscow University in Moscow, Russia. Maria also has served as a USA Gymnastics National Team coach and national judge, working with elite athletes both in the U.S. and internationally. 

Maria is an advanced Stott Pilates (see below for more information about Stott Pilates)certified Master Instructor, a TRX trainer and was the first Total Barre-certified instructor in Florida. Stott Pilates, which was created in 1988 by actor/entrepreneur Lindsay and former dancer Moira Merrithew (Stott was Moira’s maiden name), is designed to restore the spine’s natural curves, rebalance muscles, and improve core stabilization. TRX (which stands for “Total Resistance Exercise”) training, developed in 2001 by former U.S. Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick, utilizes suspension equipment to build strength and flexibility. And, Total Barre combines ballet barre exercises with Pilates principles, strength training and yoga for a full-body workout. 

Maria takes pride in the unique combination of training disciplines she offers at Euro Pilates. 

“My clients get more personalized training than at some of the other Pilates studios out there,” she says. “I believe that helped us survive Covid.” 

During the pandemic, Maria and her daughter Ania, who also worked at the studio at the time, pivoted to offering Zoom classes. Although Ania now lives in Denver, she remains actively involved in the business by teaching online classes. 

Maria’s journey to Pilates is deeply personal. “I was born in Russia with severe scoliosis (curvature of the spine),” she says, “I became involved in gymnastics at an early age, which helped with that condition. I moved to Australia with my family at age 15.” 

Euro Pilates owner Maria Ivanova also provides private Pilates lessons at her studio.

Maria began her Pilates studies in 2001, after moving from Australia to Tampa. She says she was looking to improve the performance of the athletes she was working with through specific strength and conditioning exercises when she found Pilates. 

“I wasn’t as involved in doing gymnastics myself at that point,” she says, “so when I decided to try Pilates, I immediately felt its benefits. Two sessions later, I was hooked. I wanted to do more, so I became certified.” 

Euro Pilates offers both individual and group Pilates classes utilizing a variety of equipment. Unlike many Pilates studios, Maria’s group classes are capped at five participants, allowing her and her fellow instructors to provide nearly individualized attention. She doesn’t categorize her classes by levels but instead works with each client based on their abilities, even in her small group settings. 

For beginners, the studio offers a special package of three one-on-one sessions for $135. To ensure a solid foundation, new clients are required to complete at least two private sessions before joining the studio’s semi-private or group classes. Please visit Euro-Pilates.com to see availability and to secure your spot. 

“Euro Pilates doesn’t sell memberships,” Maria says, “which is one of the things that makes us unique.” Instead, clients can purchase individual sessions or packages of multiple sessions, which come with a discount. Maria’s goal is to make Pilates safe, fun and accessible for all. 

She explains that she has three types of clients. “Most of our clients are either athletes who have had an injury and need rehabilitation, or someone who has had surgery and needs rehabilitation, although we also have clients who participate in Pilates to strengthen their bodies, so they can prevent injuries in the future. Regardless of how they get here, I give them 100%. I try to help them, and in most cases, if they do the work and stick with it, the results are amazing.” 

Speaking of amazing, here is what two of Maria’s clients are saying: 

“I have been going to Euro Pilates for seven years and have gone from constant back pain to almost no pain. I credit Maria with this transformation. Everyone who trains there is welcoming and the classes are genuinely fun.” — Kathleen C 

“The Reformer, chair, barre, yoga and combination mat classes offered at Maria Ivanova’s Euro Pilates studio in New Tampa are my favorite antidote to aging. Since I began Pilates exercises, my posture is improved, my core is strengthened and my muscle tone is coming back. Combined with the mental focus required to maintain balance and correct form, Pilates has become my most reliable weapon to combat fatigue and stress. Maria is Stott Pilates trained and you’ll be in good hands with her and her professional, dedicated and expert staff. My husband was so motivated by my positive experience that he has also started Pilates in search of relief from years of back pain. We tell everyone we know that they will love their time and effort at Euro Pilates.” — Lisa D 

What is Stott Pilates? 

Lindsay and Moira Merrithew and their team of sports medicine, fitness experts and physical therapists, created Stott Pilates to be a more modern version of traditional Pilates, which was first developed and brought to the U.S. by German-born Joseph Pilates in the late 1920s; he patented 26 different apparatuses to use during Pilates training. 

While it follows the principles of regular Pilates such as breathing, concentration, and movement, Stott Pilates focuses more on the alignment of the posture. Regular Pilates training will have you work with a flat back, but Stott Pilates uses the natural curvature of your back and several specialized pieces of equipment are integral to the Stott Pilates practice. 

The “Reformer,” for example, features springs, ropes and pulleys to provide a versatile full-body workout. Adding a “Jumpboard” to the Reformer offers an enhanced aerobic experience. The “Barrel,” another common tool, is a curved, padded structure designed to strengthen the core and improve spinal alignment. Among the variations, the “Ladder Barrel” and “Stability Barrel” cater to different levels of challenge. 

(l.-r.) Allison, Maria & fellow Euro Pilates trainer Cecilia Little are all certified to teach on all of the Pilates equipment at the studio.

Another noteworthy apparatus at Euro Pilates is the “Cadillac,” a piece of equipment designed by Joseph Pilates himself. Named after the luxury car brand, the Cadillac comes in two forms — a full version and a more compact wall unit. Both support a wide range of movements and exercises. In addition, the “Chair” is perfect for those who prefer or require seated positions but also is adaptable for advanced, high-intensity workouts. And finally, “Mat” Pilates can be done while using only a mat and various other gym equipment such as fitness balls, weights, resistance bands, etc. This is typically used when someone doesn’t have Stott equipment at home and is taking an online class. 

The staff at Euro Pilates also is highly trained and certified. For example, Cecilia Little, who was diagnosed with Cervical Spondylosis in 2013 and was advised to try Pilates as part of her treatment, says she quickly fell in love with the method and pursued Mat and Reformer courses. After moving to the U.S. in 2016, Cecilia furthered her education by completing additional courses on Pilates equipment such as the Cadillac, Chair, and Barrels. She is now a fully certified instructor with eight years of teaching experience. 

Fellow Euro Pilates instructor Allison Martin first joined the studio as a client. She became an instructor through Maria’s encouragement. 

“Allison has a background in dance, track and cross country, as well as powerlifting,” Maria explains. “I saw her love for Pilates and approached her to become one of our trainers.” 

Allison holds an American Council of Exercise (ACE) personal training certification and became a certified Stott Pilates instructor in 2021. She says Pilates has taken her body and her fitness to a new level. 

Among the different individualized classes provided at Euro Pilates are “Silver Group Classes” which include Stretch and Reformer Express, focusing on control and precision. The “Gold Group Classes,” such as Reformer and Combo, are ideal for clients familiar with Pilates principles and equipment. All classes are 50 minutes, except for Reformer Express, which is 25 minutes. More information about each of these options, along with scheduling and pricing, can be found on the studio’s website. 

Euro Pilates is located at 20743 Center Oak Dr. in New Tampa. For more information, visit Euro-Pilates.com, call (813) 756-4000 or see the ad below.

Absolute Air Systems Is One Family’s Commitment To Comfort & Integrity 

(L.-r.) Amber, Steve & Tammy DeRolf of Absolute Air Systems, with Hurricane (the Absolute Air team mascot). (Photos by Charmaine George) 

For more than 20 years, Absolute Air Systems, Inc., has been a trusted choice for heating and air conditioning services in Central Florida. Founded by the husband-&-wife team of Steve and Tammy DeRolf, along with co-founder Mike Thornton, the company is still family owned and operated. From the beginning, Absolute Air has been built on honesty, integrity and loyalty, with the goal of always providing exceptional service and fair pricing for every customer. 

The DeRolf family still plays a significant role in the daily operations of Absolute Air Systems. Tammy and Steve’s daughter Amber serves as the office manager and is often the first point of contact for customers. Having grown up in the industry, Amber brings invaluable knowledge and experience to the team. She handles everything from answering inquiries to scheduling appointments, and ensuring each customer receives the personalized attention they need. 

The family also includes Elaine, who resides in Palm Bay, and Steve Jr., who helps with the business when needed, despite having a career of his own. Mike Thornton also is still very much involved in the company’s day-to-day operations. 

Amber proudly emphasizes Absolute Air’s commitment to transparency and fair pricing. “There are a lot of great companies out there, but some will charge as much as they can,” she says. “But, we pride ourselves on having some of the lowest prices in the area. Our business is built on principles that have never changed.” 

Absolute Air offers a full range of services for both residential and commercial clients, including HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) system installations, emergency repairs, preventive maintenance, ultraviolet light (UV) installation, thermostat upgrades and ductless mini-split systems. 

The company is certified and licensed for residential and commercial projects, including new construction. Absolute Air’s experienced technicians ensure that all work complies with all codes and standards, whether it’s a small repair or a customized system for a newly built property. 

Among the company’s most popular services is the installation of ductless mini-split systems. These energy-efficient systems are ideal for homes without ductwork, older properties, room additions, small apartments and multi-family units. Mini-split systems provide both heating and cooling while offering precise temperature control. Unlike regular central air systems, the mini-split doesn’t rely on ducts to distribute the air and each of the units can be controlled individually. 

These systems work with two components. There is an outdoor compressor/ condenser and an indoor air handling unit. 

Energy Star-certified mini-split systems can use up to 60% less energy than traditional systems, making them a cost-effective option for many households. 

(Note – Customers mentioning this story or the ad below receive a $250 discount on a mini-split AC system installation.) 

Office manager Amber DeRolf isn’t an Absolute Air technician, but she is usually the first point of 
contact for most of the company’s customers. 

Another service Amber highly recommends is the installation of UV lights, which help eliminate mold, mildew, bacteria and viruses, improve indoor air quality and extend the life of an AC system. Amber explains that the UV light also will reduce odors and keep the unit running efficiently by preventing mold buildup. The light is usually placed near the evaporator coil inside the air handler, which is where most moisture and potential microbial growth occur. The UV light will sterilize the air as it passes through. 

“While there is an installation fee,” Amber says, “the only future expense is replacing the light, which depending upon the brand, may last 1-2 years.” 

Amber adds that regular routine maintenance is vital for extending the lifespan of any HVAC system. 

She also encourages customers to join the company’s maintenance membership program, which offers numerous benefits. Routine upkeep helps your system run more efficiently, reduces energy usage and lowers utility bills. Regular maintenance also ensures safety by verifying the system’s proper operation and minimizing the risk of malfunctions, which helps prevent costly breakdowns and repairs, offering customers peace of mind and long-term savings. Scheduling a maintenance appointment is made even easier with Absolute Air’s app, allowing customers to book appointments with just a few clicks. 

Customers Rave About Absolute Air! 

Kathy Gillespie, a satisfied Absolute Air customer, says, “This company is so awesome! Steve and his team have helped me keep my air conditioner going and have come out multiple times, no matter the day or time! Honest and professional! I highly recommend them!” 

Absolute Air Systems has earned its reputation for transparency and honesty. Its technicians are dedicated to presenting customers with all available options, whether a repair or replacement is needed. 

“If there’s a warranty on a part, we’ll tell you,” Amber says. “Some companies don’t, but we always will. We do everything in our power to get your unit running again at the best price possible.” 

The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in the glowing reviews it has received over the years. Customer Monica GuraHornyak writes, “Our family has been using Absolute Air for years for several properties. This past week they really pulled out all the stops to help an elderly client of mine who needed a new AC system. They arranged their schedule because of a time constraint (I’m selling the home for the client) and Miguel worked until everything was perfect. Best and most important of all, they did NOT try to oversell her a huge unit she did not need. Thank you guys, I’ll keep sending my clients to you for sure.” 

The reviews highlight the company’s commitment to treating customers like family. Absolute Air strives to ensure every customer feels valued and supported throughout their experience. “We’re not just a business; we’re a family,” Amber says. “We care about our customers and treat them the way we’d want to be treated.” 

For customers who do need a new AC system, Absolute Air offers a wide selection of top brands, including systems tailored for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. Financing options are available through GreenSky and RenewFinancial, making it easier for families to invest in their comfort. 

The DeRolf family’s dedication to community and customer care also extends to military families and veterans, who receive a 10% discount as a token of appreciation for their service. The discount can be redeemed through the company’s website, further emphasizing the company’s commitment to giving back. 

Beyond its services, Absolute Air Systems also is deeply rooted in the local community. The company participates in events and initiatives that benefit their neighbors, reinforcing its reputation as a company that truly cares. 

“Being part of this community means everything to us,” says Amber. “It’s where we live, work and raise our families.” 

Whether it’s routine maintenance, an emergency repair, or a new heating and cooling system, Absolute Air Systems is ready to help. The company’s skilled technicians, backed by decades of experience, ensure that every customer receives the highest level of service. 

To learn more about Absolute Air Systems, Inc. and the services the company provides, or to schedule an appointment, call (813) 779-0101, email info@getcoldair.com or visit GetColdAir.com. Or, see the ad below for Absolute Air’s $250 off a mini-split system offer for Neighborhood News readers. 

Ellie Mental Health Provides Compassionate Care For Children, Adults & Couples 

(L.-r.) Ellie Mental Health of Wesley Chapel clinical director Dina Hargrave and therapists Engy Eskander & Chailee Snyder (photo below).

The New Year, usually celebrated as a time of hopefulness following the joy of the holiday season, also can be especially challenging for those coping with the loss of loved ones, financial hardships and other personal struggles. The clinicians at Ellie Mental Health, located on S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel, recognize these unique emotional difficulties and provide accessible outpatient services to support individuals in emotional need during these times and beyond. The clinic encourages both therapists and clients to be their true selves throughout the therapeutic journey. 

“At Ellie Mental Health, the focus is on providing a comfortable, judgment-free environment where clients can be authentic and receive the care they need and deserve,” says clinical director Dina Hargrave. “We want both the clients and the therapists to feel they are in a safe space.” 

Ellie Mental Health is a franchise with more than 200 locations nationwide and 20 in Florida, including New Port Richey and Wesley Chapel. The Mendota Heights, MN-based company opened its first franchise in 2022. 

Dina is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in both Florida and Utah who has worked with children with significant behavioral concerns and their families for more than 10 years. She brings that experience to her role as the director and supervisor of the Wesley Chapel location of Ellie Mental Health. 

Originally from Georgia, Dina earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) degree and a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia in Athens. Her education continued at Utah State University, where she received advanced training as an Educational Specialist in Psychology (EdS). 

Having previously lived in Tampa, Dina feels a connection to the region and is passionate about making a difference here. 

“This opportunity was unique,” she explains. “I enjoy managing people and helping them grow to their full potential. It’s rewarding to see both the clinicians and clients thrive, so when this position became available, I quickly said ‘Yes.’” 

Ellie Mental Health offers a wide range of therapeutic counseling services to meet diverse mental health needs provided by two Registered Mental Health Counselor Interns (RMHCIs). An RMHCI is an individual who has completed requirements for becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) but still needs to have supervised experience to meet the requirements for state licensure. 

Those requirements include a Master’s degree or higher in mental health counseling, a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised fieldwork and a minimum of 1,500 hours of face-to-face psychotherapy work under the supervision of a qualified LMHC with a minimum of 1,000 hours of that being direct supervision. 

RMHCIs must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) and participate in continuing education. After fulfilling the internship requirements and passing the NCMHCE, an application for licensure as an LMHC in Florida can be submitted. 

At the Wesley Chapel office of Ellie Mental Health, RMHCI Rebekah “Chailee” Snyder received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida in Tampa and her Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Trauma Certificate from Antioch University. Chailee works with children as young as age two. She also works with adults. 

Fellow RMHCI Engy Eskander received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from USF Tampa and her M.A. degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. Engy focuses on clients ages 15 and older and she provides couples counseling, including services in Arabic. 

The Wesley Chapel office offers play therapy for children as young as age two, plus therapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). The clinicians also work with people with autism and those suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. 

Also offered are Psychoeducation and Psychological Testing for kids, gender-affirming care, as well as faith-based counseling, which is available upon request. Dina says she currently is working on hiring more therapists so the available services can be expanded. 

The Right Fit For Your Care 

“We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach,” Dina emphasizes. “If a therapist isn’t the right fit for a particular client or lacks the necessary specialty, we can easily connect them with someone else, which ensures personalized care.” 

She adds, “Wesley Chapel was a natural choice for the clinic’s location. The area’s rapid growth and the rising demand for mental health services made it an ideal spot. And so far, we’ve received positive feedback from the community. People are glad we are here because there aren’t many options like us in this area.” 

Dina also has been communicating with the Pasco County School District and says she looks forward to working with the District’s schools in the near future. She says she hopes to be able to offer services not only to the school children but their families as well. 

She also says that having flexible hours available for clients and therapists is a feature that makes this Ellie Mental Health office stand out. If the clinician is willing to work during the hours requested by the patient, Dina says those hours will be approved. Once the sessions start, if the clinician is not sure where the problem lies, a psychological test can be used to help provide clarity in diagnosing and treating complex issues. 

The team also ensures a secure and confidential environment for clients. “All communication is HIPAA-protected,” Dina explains, “and even during training, we don’t use real names to maintain confidentiality.” 

Even though Ellie Mental Health Wesley Chapel only opened in September, the clinic has already seen several success stories. Dina says one client made significant progress in just three sessions, while another, after six sessions, left with renewed hope despite having to relocate. 

“These are the moments that remind us why we do this work,” Dina says. 

Ellie Mental Health accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare, and Dina says, “We are working to finalize our Medicaid contract to better serve children and people with disabilities.” 

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, Dina says the clinic also offers online therapy services. This allows clients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, breaking down barriers such as transportation issues or time constraints. 

But, Ellie Mental Health is more than just a clinic — it’s a place of understanding and acceptance. With its commitment to authenticity, diversity and personalized care, Ellie Mental Health is not just helping individuals but transforming the way the community views mental health. 

Ellie Mental Health (30792 S.R. 54) is open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-6 p.m., with other hours available upon request. For more info or to schedule an appointment, visit EllieMentalHealth.com/locations/wesley-chapel-fl or call (813) 701-5250.

Dr. Teena Hughes Has Been Caring For Local Kids For More Than 30 Years! 

The staff at Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A., Pediatrics, located on E. Fletcher Ave., is led by Dr. Teena Hughes (front row, 3rd from left) and her son Dr. Roger Hughes (4th from left & next page). (Photos by Charmaine George)

For more than 30 years, Teena Hughes, M.D., has been a trusted pediatrician in Tampa, supporting generations of families in their healthcare journeys. Born in Clewiston, FL, she was raised in the Fort Lauderdale and Orlando areas. 

After earning her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the University of South Florida and completing her three-year pediatric residency at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, she spent several years gaining experience with a large healthcare group before deciding to open her own practice. Today, the Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A., Pediatrics office on E. Fletcher Ave. near N. 46th St., located only 20 minutes or so south of the Hillsborough County line near Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd.,, is well-known by local parents and their children. 

Dr. Teena’s eldest son, Roger Hughes, III, D.O., joined the practice in July 2021, but his route to pediatrics wasn’t immediate. After earning a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Microbiology from the University of Florida in Gainesville and completing his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree at the Bradenton, FL, campus of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, he pursued a three-year residency at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, FL. 

Although he admits he initially was uncertain about focusing on pediatrics, Dr. Roger says everything changed during medical school. 

“I was always interested in medicine and knew I would be a physician, but didn’t really have an interest in pediatrics” he says, “until I experienced it. In medical school you have a chance to try different areas of medicine, and I immediately fell in love with pediatrics and knew this was the right path for me.” 

Just as Dr. Teena has brought her own second generation into the practice, she says, “Many of the patients I cared for as children are now bringing their own kids to me,” she says. “It’s heartwarming to see the next generation walk through my doors.” 

Dr. Roger adds that they have families coming from as far away as Riverview and Dade City. “They come for the personalized care they remember getting themselves,” Dr. Roger says, “and know their children will receive the same.” 

He also says that working alongside his mother has been both rewarding and practical. 

“It’s great having two doctors here,” he says. “We can cover for each other while keeping the small, family-friendly atmosphere our patients love.” Dr. Roger recalls one particularly touching moment: “A former patient said he enjoyed coming to the office when he was small and always anticipated going to the treasure chest — it was his favorite thing. Now, he’s bringing his own child here.” 

The office offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of young patients and their families. From wellness checkups and sick visits to vaccinations and minor procedures like ear piercing and wart removal, Teena Hughes Pediatrics provides a level of care that is both extensive and convenient. 

For example, ear piercing recently has become a sought-after service, handled with a doctor’s precision. 

“One of my nurses,” Dr. Teena says, “had just come on board and asked about piercing. I told her we didn’t do it. But then, I became educated about the fact that many Hispanic families believe in piercing a child’s ears as early as they can. She told me we needed to start doing it and it has been a success. Parents trust us to do it because it’s safe and hygienic. We even get teenagers coming in for second piercings with their parents’ approval.” Please note that Dr. Teena will only pierce ears and you don’t have to be one of her patients to receive the service. 

Dr. Teena and Dr. Roger’s affiliation with AdventHealth Tampa (AHT) hospital ensures a seamless connection to hospital care. Each morning, either Dr. Teena or Dr. Roger visit newborns at AHT, offering parents peace of mind as they navigate the early days of parenthood. Both doctors feel comfortable with pediatric patients of all ages, from newborns through teens. 

Published Research, Too 

The practice also participates in clinical research studies, contributing to advancements in pediatric medicine. Recently, Dr. Teena co-authored a study on PCV20 (which stands for pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 20-valent), which protects against seven more strains of pneumococcus (or pneumonia) than PCV13. Published in the prestigious Pediatrics (the official peer-reviewed flagship journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics), this research underscores the practice’s commitment to improving children’s health. 

Families also can even participate in studies, such as those evaluating different types of baby formula. Participants receive formula free of charge and help researchers gather valuable insights by keeping journals of their experiences. 

“These studies provide an opportunity for parents to access additional resources while contributing to medical advancements,” Dr. Teena explains. “The products they are evaluating are usually products they already use.” 

The team includes three Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — nurse practitioners Kelsey Overton, Adrienne Graham and Desiree Bonnet — who work closely with Dr. Teena and Dr. Roger to provide additional top-notch care. This cohesive team ensures that every family feels supported, no matter the need. 

Dr. Teena balances her professional life with her role as a mother and grandmother. With four children and one grandson, family is at the heart of everything she does. Her second son Casey currently is completing a post-graduate residency in Chicago and, while his future plans are undecided, Dr. Teena welcomes the possibility of him joining the practice and adding to her legacy. 

She also is proud of the relationships she’s built over the years. “Being a pediatrician is about more than just medicine,” she says. “It’s about trust, compassion, and being there for families during every stage of life.” 

The office also is highly accessible, with hours designed for busy families. Open Mon.- Fri., 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and 8 a.m.-noon on Sat., the practice offers same-day and next-day appointments, as well as walk-ins at 8 a.m. Patients can schedule appointments online through the practice’s website, which also provides a wealth of educational resources on topics like car seat safety, immunizations and traveling with children. 

Teena Hughes, M.D., P.A., Pediatrics is located at 4444 E Fletcher Ave., Suite C, and accepts most major health insurance plans. For appointments and more info, call (813) 903-0060 or visit TeenaHughesPediatrics.com.