Elizabeth Penela PhD

In my private practice, I focus on providing evidenced-based therapy for children and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, and related concerns. Therapy services are provided via tele-health and in-person, and about half of my patients are individuals coping with OCD.

I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) within a warm and compassionate environment. I also incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness practices as needed. My goal is to empower individuals and families to overcome current obstacles and to develop confidence in their ability to navigate future challenges.

I have extensive training and experience in providing evidence-based treatment to children and adults with anxiety, OCD, and related concerns. I completed my PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Miami, and continued at UM to complete my post-doctoral fellowship at the Child and Adolescent Mood and Anxiety Treatment Program. I later worked at Pediatric Psychology Associates, a private practice group in South Florida focused on providing evidence-based services. In 2020 I completed the Pediatric Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI), an intensive training course overseen by leading OCD experts. I also launched my specialized private practice, Wellness in Broward.

I am a native Spanish speaker and enjoy working with individuals and families of diverse backgrounds. As a child of Peruvian immigrants, I have a personal understanding of how immigration experiences can impact each generation within a family differently. I feel fortunate to serve the South Florida community, where individuals of many different cultural, religious, and racial backgrounds seek treatment.