LGBT therapists in Fort Lauderdale, FL

“We are never more fully alive, more completely ourselves or more deeply engrossed in anything than when we are playing”. -Charles Schaefer. Play is vital for children to express themselves and learn about their surroundings and general environment. In addition to exploration, it is essential for their development. Allowing the space for them to play freely generates the possibility of understanding their world and their motivation. Instead of the traditional format of communication, we often learn more about a child's thoughts, feelings, motivations, and struggles by watching them play.

To be able to give a child power, motivation, and confidence will set the foundation for a successful life. Often times when dealing with a traumatic situation and learning to deal and cope with it effectively, allows a child (or anyone for that matter) to become the best versions of themselves and learn to move forward.

Play Therapy sessions with a Licensed clinician that cares and helps create a safe place. I guide my clients and their parents every step of the way and implement various methods to help them develop new attitudes towards all of life’s most complex matters. The works I do benefits children coming from abusive homes and dealing with some of those challenges.

I know reaching out for help isn’t always easy. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, feeling overwhelmed, or simply not feeling like yourself, my goal is to provide a space where you feel comfortable being honest about what you’re going through.

I believe people do best when they feel genuinely heard and understood. I take the time to listen, answer questions, and work with you to find solutions that fit your life. My focus is helping you feel better, function better, and get back to being the version of yourself you want to be.

Around the office, Marilisa (she/her) is known for her vibrant hair, comfortable jeans, and barefoot-friendly approach to work. It takes only a brief introduction to see that she has found her true calling. Passionate about her practice and grounded in her own personal peace, Marilisa naturally carries a sense of calm, steady warmth wherever she goes.

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.

Finding the right psychiatric provider is about more than credentials. You want someone who will listen, take your concerns seriously, and help you understand what is going on without making you feel rushed or judged.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of healthcare experience. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep concerns, stress, and life transitions. I am also bilingual in English and Spanish.

My approach is simple: I want to understand your story, not just your symptoms. I take time to explain your options, answer your questions, and include you in decisions about your care. One of the compliments I value most is, “You actually listened.” That is the kind of experience I want every patient and family to have.

I’m a licensed therapist who works with moms and couples who feel overwhelmed, burnt out, and disconnected. I specialize in postpartum mental health, anxiety, and the mental load that often falls on women. My approach is warm, direct, and practical—I’ll support you while also helping you shift the patterns that keep you stuck. Therapy with me is a space to be honest, feel understood, and start reconnecting with yourself and your relationship.