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

"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.

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.

Clients should know that I’m down-to-earth, non-judgmental, and a genuine person. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe enough to be real—no masks, no pressure, no shame. I bring warmth and care into the room, along with a sense of humor when it’s helpful, because healing doesn’t always have to feel heavy to be meaningful.

I’m also solution-focused and collaborative. That means we’ll spend time understanding what’s going on, but we won’t get stuck there. We’ll work together to identify practical tools, coping strategies, and small, realistic steps that can help you feel better in your day-to-day life. Above all, I care deeply about meeting you where you are and supporting you in a way that feels respectful, empowering, and aligned with your goals. If you do not see your insurance provider listed and you are interested in private pay, please email me at [email protected] or find me on Psychology today under Nicole McCray and send me a message.

Statement

I am a compassionate, caring therapist who supports holistic treatment for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors such a divorce, death and trauma. I have work with trauma patients such as 9/11, veterans and sexual abuse victims. I have expertise in couples counseling as well and have enjoyed that through the years. I believe that healing happens within a strong, trusting relationship. My approach is warm, supportive, and genuinely caring - I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and never judged. Together, we work at your pace to explore what’s holding you back and

I’ve been married since 2015 to a wonderful woman and have one daughter. I’m bilingual (English/Spanish). I earned a Master of Science in Psychology in 2014 and a Master of Arts in Theological Studies in 2019. I’ve been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2017. I've also had 13 years of corporate experience. I specialize in trauma, identity, self-esteem, and spirituality. I combine Christian counseling as a holistic approach with evidence-based therapies. I enjoy working with men and women alike.

I work with adults who are navigating loss, life, transitions, and moments, when things no longer feel stable or familiar. Many of my clients are high functioning, thoughtful people who are used to caring for others, holding things together, or pushing through – until something shifts and the usual strategies stop working.

My approach is relational, trauma informed, and grounded in compassion. I believe therapy works best when you feel genuinely seen, respected, and understood. Sessions are collaborative and paste with care, balancing emotional exploration with practical tools to help you, cope, regain clarity, and move forward with intention.

With the background of medical social work, I have extensive experience supporting individuals, facing illness, grief, caregiver stress, and major life changes. I also work with anxiety, depression, relationship, concerns, and the emotional impact of long-term stress or unresolved trauma. I pay close attention to the nervous system, attachment patterns, and the way past experience, the shape present reactions – while staying focused on what feels important to you right now.

Client often describe me a steady, intuitive, and thoughtful. I aim to create a space that feels safe, grounded, and nonjudgmental – where you don’t have to perform, explain everything perfectly, or have it all figured out. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready to understand yourself more deeply, therapy can be a pace to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin making meaningful change.

If you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone.

’m a bilingual (Spanish-English) therapist with over 20 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, emotional challenges, and relationship stress. I also work with teens and children facing behavioral, academic, and emotional concerns.

I hold Master’s degrees in Social Work from NYU and in Clinical Psychology from the Psychiatric Hospital of Caracas. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and practical—helping you gain clarity, build self-worth, and create healthier, more secure connections.

I believe meaningful change begins with connection. Let’s start there.