Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Pembroke Pines, FL covered by Aetna

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.

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.

“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.

As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering individuals, particularly those navigating midlife transitions, multicultural experiences, and healing from challenging personal histories.

I'm Deborah Mondlak, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker based in Hollywood, Florida, specializing in trauma, grief, and life transitions.

My work is grounded in the belief that healing doesn't have to take years. I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy® (ART), an evidence-based approach that helps people process painful memories and difficult experiences rapidly — often within a few sessions — without requiring you to talk through every detail. I also draw on Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and somatic approaches depending on what each person needs.

I work with adults navigating loss, major life changes, and the aftermath of traumatic experiences. I am also fluent in Spanish and welcome Spanish-speaking clients.

I received my Master of Social Work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University and have trained extensively in trauma-focused modalities.

I completed my undergraduate studies at Florida International University. I obtained a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at Nova Southeastern University and completed both a master’s and doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Albizu University. I gained predoctoral internship training at University of Central Florida and a postdoctoral fellowship at Jackson Health System in affiliation with the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

I believe in creating a non-judgmental and empathic environment where my clients feel safe and free to examine their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Experiencing transitions or periods of uncertainty? Are you going through a phase of impactful life changes? Such as moving to a new area, relationship transitions, career changes or even being on your own for the first time. I have experience working with young adults and college student's, helping them manage and find solutions during crucial periods in their life.