Chance For Happiness

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Welcome! I am very excited you are here. My name is Laurie Lerner. Considering counseling means at a deep level, you know you deserve better and are capable of more out of your life. Through psychotherapy, you will be able to explore one of the most important subjects in your life---yourself.

I have dedicated myself to healing lives through my passion for counseling for over 30 years and have the unique training, experience and credentials to help you cope through the rough spots in your life. I am trained in the practice of psychotherapy, holding a Master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University in Mental Health Counseling, one of the most respected counseling programs in the nation. NBCC represents my certification with the National Board for Certified Counselors, the nation’s premier professional certification board devoted to credentialing counselors who meet the highest standards for professional counseling. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that is recognized throughout the entire State of Florida.

Prior to private practice, I have worked in many different settings treating a multitude of mental health disorders. Through advanced training as well as with years of experience, I have developed particular expertise in treating trauma in both adolescents and adults. I am experienced in helping people work through a variety of life challenges, including self-esteem issues, life transitions, anxiety, stress, parenting, grief, relational issues, and addiction. I practice a conversational, collaborative therapy approach aimed at helping people understand themselves better, rather than explain people to themselves. You may be troubled by persistent negative thoughts and feelings, dissatisfied with certain important relationships, or frustrated that the choices you’ve made are no longer working for you. Either way, I applaud you for taking this step. I work with each of my client’s to ensure they are comfortable and ready to explore their issues in a space that is free from all judgments, stigmas or shame. I am well versed in brief therapy, psychodynamic theories, cognitive behavior therapy, systems theory and solution focused therapy. My style is to look to promote fundamental changes to take place in your life that will last. I start from the positive psychology framework and look for strengths that you already have. By blending both cognitive behavioral and client centered therapy I make sure that you feel empowered. I will start your first sessions with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, often times combining an eclectic blend of techniques as I get to know you, depending on your very own specific needs. I tailor my approach to my patients' concerns and needs, taking into account their life circumstances, developmental stage, cultural influences, and the contexts in which my patients exist. I believe that therapy is a process that, for many people and under certain conditions, can be a transformative one. I am committed to helping my patients work towards experiencing greater fulfillment within themselves and their relationships with others.

The human experience is faced with times of challenge, change and adversity. I believe our strength lies within our reaction to these challenges. I will work with you to develop positive habits so you can remain resilient and adaptable during these tough times. Understanding the power of our own choices can be liberating, empowering and provides a focus for change. As we work together, we will build a partnership to facilitate clarity and growth. I believe all of us have the power and strength within us to achieve our goals but sometimes feel "stuck.” I will use my experience and training to help you get "unstuck." I will join with you to improve healthy and effective coping skills, and increase your self-understanding of intra- and inter-personal dynamics. I will provide a nurturing space for you to talk, explore, process, and heal. My hope is to help you gain self-awareness and clarity in your healing. Together we will get you moving in your desired direction. We will work to set and revise goals. I will encourage regular feedback to ensure your needs are being met, I will guide your focus, provide insights, and help pace your work. With the combination of my clinical training along with your dedication to your therapy, we can achieve the goals you set out for your life. I do not believe we cannot heal alone.

I am proud and humbled to be able to do the work of a psychotherapist and am committed to offering you my best.

It would be my privilege to work with you.