Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Deerfield Beach, FL

It's difficult making the first phone call, booking an appointment and admitting you need help. Whether it's depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or trauma, it's frightening to admit that everything isn't how you want it to be and you don't have all the answers. If you're experiencing sadness, anxiety, mood swings, intrusive thoughts or images, flash backs, numbness or insomnia, there is hope and there is help. I'm going to teach you skills to manage you symptoms, emotions and relationships more effectively.

I have more than 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field and have been in private practice since 2003. I work with adults, older adults, adolescents, individuals, and families who are navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, grief, stress, relationship challenges, ADHD, anger, impulse control, substance use concerns, cultural or ethnic issues, and major life transitions. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology in Cuba in 1982 and later completed my Master’s degree at Florida International University in 1998. My background has shaped a warm, culturally sensitive, and practical approach to therapy.

I understand that reaching out for support can feel difficult at first. My goal is to help clients feel safe, respected, and supported as they take that courageous first step toward feeling better and becoming a healthier version of themselves.

I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I've been a registered nurse since 2009 and a Nurse Practitioner since 2018, with extensive experience in inpatient mental health and addiction treatment settings.

I specialize in medication management for treating complex mental health conditions and substance use disorders, including experience in coordinating and administering long-acting injections to support long-term stability and recovery. I bring both clinical expertise and grounded compassion to every appointment. When we work together, we'll develop a treatment plan tailored to what matters most to you, because you're always the expert on your own life.

Elizabeth Lerner received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech Communications and Sociology from the University of Miami in 1993 and earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Florida International University in 1995. She became licensed in 1998 and is a qualified supervisor for those seeking Florida licensure.

"Are you "powering through" your day only to feel completely exhausted and disconnected when it’s over?

Burnout starts with exhaustion, but it rarely stops there. Left unchecked, it can lead to a deep sense of isolation, leaving you feeling like no one truly understands the weight you’re carrying. This often spirals into depression, anxiety and substance abuse, making it even harder to manage the demands of ADHD or the habits—like substance use—that we sometimes use to cope.

Before becoming a therapist, I practiced family law for 20 years. My experience taught me how to ask the hard questions in a way that is respectful and caring. I know from experience that professionals often feel they have to keep up a "mask" of competency, even when they are struggling internally. In our work together, we drop the mask and embrace reality.

If we can improve self-honesty and communication, we can develop the insight needed to stop the cycle of isolation and support positive and lasting change.

Life is about experiences and stories around those experiences. Some good, some unexpected, some "WTF." I get it. Being human comes with a lot and that includes challenges that might rock you to your core. However, if you're ready to widen your perspective on Who You Are and Can Choose to Be, then, It's time to tap into the More of You! I'll support you as expand your narrative and choices. Crying, laughing, cursing and venting is included. Spanglish is also offered.