Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Merrillville, IN

I've been a therapist for over 25 years, helping people with anxiety, depression and addictions. I've worked in a variety of settings over the years and understand how challenging it is to make changes in life.

As a bilingual counselor who was born and raised in Panama and moved to the United States in 1992, I understand how culture, identity, and life transitions can shape a person’s emotional well-being. My own experiences, along with witnessing the personal and often isolating struggles within my community, inspired my commitment to helping people feel connected, supported, and empowered during challenging times.

I earned a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Human Services from the University of Indiana in 2011. My counseling style is proactive, compassionate, collaborative, and comprehensive. I work with individuals from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds to better understand their experiences, identify meaningful goals, and develop practical strategies for moving forward.

In our sessions, you can expect a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where your voice, values, and goals guide the work. Together, we will build on your strengths and help you reclaim a greater sense of clarity, confidence, and control in your life.

I am a seasoned psychotherapist and psychiatric provider with nearly two decades of experience in the behavioral health field. After earning a Master of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville in 2006, I became licensed by the Kentucky Board of Social Work. I also hold national certification in case management (CCMC), am a licensed supervisory-level addictions specialist (CADAC-IV) through the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium, and a licensed marriage and family therapist through the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).

My academic journey continued with a Doctorate in Behavioral Health from Arizona State University, specializing in integrated medical and behavioral health services, followed by a Post-Doctorate Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. I further expanded my scope of practice through a Master’s Entry in Professional Nursing (BSN & MSN) from the University of Louisville in 2020, a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Northern Kentucky University in 2021, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Duke University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed to prescribe and manage medications.

In addition to clinical practice, I have led multidisciplinary teams and supervised clinical operations, enhancing quality of care, staff development, and patient outcomes across diverse systems. I am deeply committed to lifelong learning and delivering compassionate, evidence-based, integrative care to individuals and families in both Kentucky and Indiana.

Empathetic, but will challenge one to become the best version of themselves. My years of experience afford me a good insight into various mental health disorders. I have a vast background in working with couples, families, and court ordered cases regarding divorce and coparenting. I have worked with diverse populations extensively. I utilize humor to help make the counseling environment warm, fun and engaging.

First off, thanks for reading my profile! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor. I spent most of my career working with people struggling with mental health issues, relationship problems and addictive behavior. I try to be "down to earth" and more directive in therapy because I think you want to get your issues solved as quickly as possible which is better for you. I believe we, as humans, can benefit from having someone to talk to at any point in our lives and I'm always up for a good chat. I'm also a believer that if you feel empowered to take on the hard things in life, you'll be more likely to be and remain successful with other things you may be facing.

I’m Lisa, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who blends humor, compassion, and curiosity to create a safe space for growth. I serve adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or identity questions. My goal is to help you work with your brain—not against it—so you can dig deeper, embrace self-acceptance, and move toward a more authentic, balanced life.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor with over 26 years of experience supporting individuals and families through challenges related to trauma, mental health, and addiction. I am EMDR Certified and have a passion for helping people navigate anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship struggles, and low self-esteem. I believe healing grows from a foundation of trust, compassion, and authentic human connection.

Hello there I am Debbie and I have been working in the counseling field for over 16 years and practicing as a licensed clinical therapist the last 10 years. My goal has always been to provide my clients with supportive non bias/judgement free environment to work on developing strength based and client center focused goals! I have made it my mission in life to help each and every client become the best version of themselves they possibly can be! I am over the moon about the results I have seen over the years with my clients. I hope to continue helping everyone I work with to find their path to happiness healing and security through our time together!