Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Pompano Beach, FL covered by United Healthcare

Hi/Hola, I am Maria E. Lizardi, a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Florida and licensed Psychologist in Puerto Rico. I have been working in the mental health field since 2009 with children, teens, and adults. I have experience in Florida as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and as a licensed Psychologist in Puerto Rico. As a bilingual counselor. An empathetic and supportive style creates a safe space for growth, healing, and self-discovery. I have a passion for empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical specialist ( ASDCS) and Certified Dementia Practitioner . I enjoy working with our most vulnerable populations. I empower seniors, children and families by employing evidenced based interventions. I work with individuals, special needs children and families in the area of depression, anxiety, stress management and adjusting to life changes. I utilize humor to foster and strengthen the therapeutic alliance.

Patient-focused and compassionate Psychiatric APRN specialized in the care of individuals living with Serious Mental Illnesses (i.e., Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Schizophrenia, MDD, GAD, ADHD). I understand the challenges of navigating periods of depression, PTSD, mania, and the uncertainty that can come in between. My mission is to provide supportive, evidence-based care that helps you establish stability, regain balance, and enhance your quality of life.

I take a whole-person approach, offering:

• Thoughtful medication management tailored to your unique needs.
• Therapy options such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT).
• Education and guidance to help you recognize early warning signs of mood changes.
• Support for families and loved ones who play an important role in recovery.

My goal is not only to reduce symptoms but also to help you live with greater confidence, stability, and well-being.

Claudine Bernier, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

I offer a brief 15-minute phone consultation to ensure a good fit before scheduling. Call or text: 239-354-7446.

I’m a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP) specializing in trauma and anxiety. I help people who feel overwhelmed or stuck find relief and feel more like themselves again. I use evidence-based approaches including CBT and am trained in EMDR. I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

I graduated from The Ohio State University with my DNP in 2020 focusing on efficient pathways to implement depression screening post-stroke to identify mental health needs. After working a couple years as a nurse practitioner within neurosurgery, I transitioned from Ohio to Florida and pursued my PMHNP certification from Florida State University. Over the past 5 years I have been treating psychiatric needs in LTC around Florida. I am currently working to expand into independent practice and work personally with individuals creating a therapeutic relationship and enhancing their mental health.

I firmly believe that you are the expert of your life and hold the keys to deep and meaningful change. I am here to ask the right questions, provide the tools, and make connections from your past and present to help you gain access to such change. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and its healing nature.

I believe effective mental health care starts with feeling heard, respected, and understood. I take a collaborative, non-judgmental approach and work closely with you to understand your goals, concerns, and life context—not just your symptoms.

I value clear communication and transparency, so I’ll explain diagnoses, treatment options, and medications in a way that’s easy to understand. My goal is to help you feel confident and informed about your care, not rushed or overwhelmed.

I provide evidence-based medication management while considering the whole person—mental, emotional, and physical health. I welcome questions and encourage active participation in treatment decisions so we can create a plan that truly fits your needs.

Whether you’re seeking care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or ongoing medication management, I aim to create a supportive, safe space where progress feels achievable and care feels personal.

I believe therapy works best when there is a strong connection between therapist and client. My style is warm, genuine, and direct. I'll offer compassion and support, but I'll also help you recognize patterns that may be keeping you stuck.

As a trauma-informed therapist and EMDR specialist, I create a space where you can be yourself without judgment. Clients often tell me they feel comfortable with me quickly because I show up as a real person—not just a therapist.

I believe healing happens through both insight and action. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and empowered to create meaningful change in your life.

I get it. You’re tired of feeling stuck, exhausted, and like nothing’s really changing. You’ve been carrying a lot, and it’s starting to feel heavy. As a psychotherapist in practice for over 10 years, I’m passionate about walking alongside adults on their healing journey, especially those navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. Whether you're a professional burning out, a veteran facing emotional pain, or a student trying to find your footing, I offer support rooted in compassion and real tools like EMDR and CBT. More importantly, I create a space where you can show up just as you are and feel truly seen, safe, and supported.

Refined Beginnings Counseling takes the focus off of issues and highlights solutions. Refined Beginnings Counseling LLC supports an environment that is least restrictive, provides for confidentiality, and convenience by offering tele-mental health services in Florida and both tele-mental health and office visits to clients in Georgia.