Find a therapist in North Miami Beach, FL — covered by insurance

I am a licensed therapist with 27 years of experience, and I have learned through my work — and my life — that healing is always possible. If you are living with depression or anxiety, you may have spent years managing, pushing through, or simply surviving. There is another way.

I am deeply drawn to working with adults at midlife and beyond — women and men navigating life transitions, grief and loss, caregiver burnout, empty nest, and the complicated emotions that come with this rich and often underestimated stage of life. We carry so much in these years — love, wisdom, loss, regret, fear and hope — and all of it deserves space to be seen and integrated.

Clients often tell me they feel both deeply understood and gently challenged. I bring genuine warmth and compassion, but I am also direct and perceptive. I see what is underneath the words — the unspoken emotions and patterns that quietly shape our lives. Together we work to bring those hidden parts to light, where they can transform into sources of strength and clarity.

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.

Hello, and welcome.

Seeking support can be one of the most courageous steps a person takes, and I believe therapy works best when you feel understood, respected, and genuinely supported. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore challenges, build resilience, and move toward the life you want to live.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor with extensive experience working with adults facing trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, life transitions, relationship challenges, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Throughout my career, I have worked in outpatient, residential, and community-based settings, helping individuals navigate some of life's most difficult experiences while rediscovering their strengths and sense of purpose.

In addition to my clinical experience, I am a United States Air Force combat veteran and former first responder. These experiences have given me firsthand insight into the unique challenges associated with high-stress professions, trauma exposure, operational demands, transition struggles, and the pressure of carrying significant responsibility while managing your own well-being. As a result, I have a particular passion for working with veterans, active-duty military members, first responders, healthcare professionals, and others whose careers require them to care for others while often neglecting themselves.

I've spent over 21 years helping people navigate some of life's toughest situations — substance use, trauma, domestic violence, anger, and the kind of challenges that make it hard to see a way forward. I spent the last decade working in court-ordered programs with clients who didn't choose to be in therapy, and I got them to stay. First thing I tell every client: I am your advocate. I'm real, I'm relatable, and yes, I will make you laugh! I'm a seasoned Black woman from New York City, and my NYC energy definitely comes through. Clients describe me as someone who can break through that wall of resistance many people walk in with and I'm proud of that.

As a starter, I am a child of God, a mother of three, including a pair of twins, a wife, a sister, and a friend to and of many. I also hold a clinical Social Worker license (LCSW) in Florida. I earned my master’s degree in social work from Western Michigan University and my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI. Additionally, I hold the master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) credential, showcasing her expertise in treating substance use disorders. I am a certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), demonstrating ability to address complex trauma among diverse populations. I also serve as a Qualified Supervisor (QS) for registered social work interns. I believe that we are change agents and capable of growth at any point in our lives. I have dedicated the last 15 years of my life to helping others flourish in their journey to psychological wellness. I am here now to continue that mission. If I may be of service to you and want to give it a try to see if we're a good fit for each other, please contact me.

I am currently accepting new clients. If you’ve been carrying a lot for a long time, you don’t have to sort through it alone. I work with adults of all ages to address past experiences, current concerns, and future goals in a welcoming, collaborative, and supportive space. If you’re looking for care that feels thoughtful, steady, and genuinely personal, we’ll create a path forward together.