Find a therapist in Pembroke Pines, FL — covered by insurance

With over 25 years of experience as an addiction specialist, and a graduate of Nova Southeastern University specializing in Child and Youth Studies, he is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among his areas of expertise are substance and alcohol abuse, internet gambling, relationship problems, parenting and family issues.

He is a Licensed Psychotherapist and APA Board Certified in Professional Counseling; has a doctorate in Child and Youth Studies from Nova Southeastern University ’s Fischler Graduate School of Education and Human Services and a master’s in Mental Health Counseling; a specialist in the field of addictions, is certified in Addictions Counseling from the University of Miami; is a Certified Addictions Professional (C.A.P.) since 1994 and a Fellow of the American Psychotherapy Association. He is a member of the American Counseling Association.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17 years of experience in supporting clients at the residential level of care with a nationally recognized organization, I am hoping to continue fulfilling my purpose in providing high quality therapy outside of the residential setting. I've had the privilege of walking alongside clients as they break free from the chains of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm and suicidality, and eating disorders; and work towards developing a better relationship with themselves through building up their feelings of self-compassion, esteem and confidence.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. This means I have specialized training in couples and relationship therapy, but I also have 7 years experience in counseling for anxiety, depression, and trauma.

I am a Salvadoran-American Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides individual, family and group therapy in English and Spanish. I received my Master of Social Work from Columbia University and have had the privilege of empowering clients for over 12 years. I also love to teach and serve as Adjunct Faculty at FIU School of Social Work.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, listening to podcasts and stand-up comedy, dancing Zumba, and reading fiction.

A therapist passionate about helping children, teens, and young adults navigate the challenges of growing up in a complex world. My approach is warm, patient, and collaborative, I believe that building genuine trust is the foundation of meaningful change.

In my work with young people, I focus on creating a safe, supportive space where they can express themselves freely and feel understood. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, family stress, or identity concerns, I meet each client where they are with empathy and respect. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based techniques to help clients understand their emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and build confidence in themselves.

When working with children and teens, I also value partnering with parents and caregivers, helping families strengthen communication, connection, and understanding. My goal is to empower each young person to recognize their strengths, navigate challenges, and develop the tools they need to thrive—both now and in the future.

Clients often describe me as calm, relatable, and easy to talk to. I believe therapy should feel like a supportive conversation that sparks growth, resilience, and self-discovery.

If you or your child are struggling to manage big emotions, adjust to life changes, or find a sense of direction, I’m here to help you take the next step toward healing and balance.

Finding the right therapist is an important step, and I know it can feel a little intimidating. My hope is that by learning a little about me, you will feel more comfortable before we meet for the first time. I earned my Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) from Albizu University in Miami, Fl and have been working for over 9 years in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals facing a wide range of emotional and life challenges in hospitals, inpatient facilities, and private practice. I specialize in helping adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, trauma, eating disorders, grief, perimenopause, and other health and women's mental health concerns.

My therapeutic style is personalized because I don't believe once approach fits all. I integrate evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness based interventions, and trauma informed techniques. Together, we will work together to identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck while developing practical skills you can use outside of our session.