Our Providers

Dr. Richard C. Phelps DO

I was born into a family of seven siblings in a small suburb of Hartford Connecticut. During my childhood I enjoyed boating on Long Island Sound, wrestling and playing football. I also became an avid skier, except one unfortunate day when a severe accident landed me in the hospital at 14yrs old. After multiple surgeries and physical therapy I gained a new insight and appreciation for the medical field. From that time forward I desired to become a physician.

I matriculated into the University of Connecticut for undergraduate and then graduate school where I received a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science and a master’s degree in Nutritional Biochemistry. In 2007 my quest to become a physician starting from age 14 would become true as I began medical school at The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Like every medical student I had to find my niche as I tried to determine where I belonged and who I could help the most. The fascination with the mind, the body and the ability to talk and relate to patients with empathy was intriguing; I knew I wanted to pursue psychiatry. In 2007 I started my psychiatry residency at The Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital. Historically the Institute of Living was founded in 1822, making it the third psychiatric hospital in the United States. It was also in the top 4% of all hospitals in the country based out 4,861 medical centers. I chose this residency not only for the caliber of the program but to be closer with my family. Upon graduation I followed my future wife to South Carolina where she completed a residency in Radiation Oncology at MUSC. During the six years in South Carolina I opened a private practice that focused primarily on adolescents and adults with Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder.

We have since settled in Boca Raton as my wife accepted a position at the Cleveland Clinic. I love living close to the ocean and am often found fishing on the weekends or swimming at the beach after a long day at work. My wife and I married in 2013 and we now have two beautiful daughters together. I also cant forget to mention my first born, a French Bulldog named “Stitch.”

I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, a member of the American Psychiatric Association and a Diplomat for the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am experienced seeing children, adolescents and adults but currently prefer those ages 13 and older. I am easy going, kind, compassionate and can relate to my patients in a down to earth manner. For that reason people are comfortable around me and never feel judged. Good rapport is one of my strengths. Please see my home page for some of the many conditions I treat and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Dr. Michelle Kaplan MD

I moved from New York after many years of professional practice to be closer with my parents and to help raise my children. I am a firm believer it takes a village but will also confess the sunshine and palm trees certainly don’t hurt. Most of my residency training was completed at Long Island Jewish Hospital Medical Center and then as staff psychiatrist at the Manhattan Psychiatric Center.

As an adult psychiatrist at Boca Raton Psychiatry I treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and OCD. I have a wonderful empathetic demeanor with my patients and consider myself down to Earth, kind and caring. I believe my patients would say the same, as most have known me for years and come to enjoy developing long term relationships with me. When I am not at work you can find me enjoying Disneyworld or at a park with my kids.

Dr. Andrew Sorial MD

I was born in Miami but grew up right here in Boca Raton. I always excelled in school but spent much of my childhood playing sports such as football or basketball. I graduated from Spanish River Community High School and attended FAU but it wasn’t until after graduating from medical school when I would find my true calling. I worked at Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Weston and later in the Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. Serving those who served this country was one of the most humbling and enlightening experiences of my life, and it helped me to discover my true passion for Psychiatry. I completed my training in General Psychiatry in Miami. Afterwards, I returned home to beautiful Boca Raton to be closer to my family and to join Boca Raton Psychiatry.

In my free time I enjoy playing sports, passing time at the beach or park, and spending time with friends and family. I also love to travel the world and have been to over fifty countries to taste a variety of cuisines. I have been told by those around me that I am caring, compassionate, considerate, and respectful. I look forward to fostering great relationships with all of my future patients on a journey to health and happiness.

Dr. Julio Ballestas MD

I was born in Fort Lauderdale and since a young age, I’ve been exposed to multiple cultures as I was partially raised in South America. Since teenage years, I found myself helping many friends deal with personal difficulties. I was fascinated to better understand the human mind and behavior. Since the beginning of medical school, psychiatry was my first choice as I felt compassion for those suffering from conditions usually misunderstood by others. I was determined to find better ways of treatment and to reduce the stigma of mental health.

I completed my psychiatric residency in New York at Albert Einstein and a Fellowship at Yale University. After graduation, I became interested helping the underserved, and became a volunteer at Columbia University and traveled to Uganda, Africa to understand the health and mental health needs in underdeveloped countries. My passion to learn different treatment modalities led me to study Nutritional Psychiatry, Epigenetics, Functional Medicine and Integrative Medicine. I later traveled to India and learned the importance of mindfulness meditation. Based on my international travel and multicultural experiences, I developed a global perspective on human wellbeing focusing on holistic treatments to help the mind, body and spirit.

After many years traveling and studying; I decided to come back to my home state and be close to my family. In my free time you can hear me playing drums, Latin ballroom dancing, or enjoying the day at the beach. I am known to be very friendly, humorous, and outgoing with positive energy.

Dr. Ivonne Torriente Crespo

I am an Adult Psychiatrist, certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and a member of the American Psychiatric Association. I feel honored to have completed my Psychiatric Residency training at Saint Elizabeths Hospital in Washington DC, the first federally operated psychiatric hospital in the United States. It has a long and rich history dating back to 1855.

I moved in 2019 to be closer to my family and practice in the beautiful weather here in sunny Florida. Its more what I am accustomed to having grown up in Cuba. As an adult psychiatrist I specialize in treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, OCD and PTSD. I’m committed to creating a strong doctor-patient therapeutic relationship with a patient-centered focus of care. My approach is providing a consistent, empathic and nonjudgmental space to help my patients relieve their suffering and improve their mental well-being. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, going to the beach and bike riding.

Dr. Anca-Maria Bejenaru MD

I have returned to Florida after completing my medical training in Delaware. I just couldn’t say no to the warm weather and beaches. As much as I enjoyed being closer to the ski slopes, I am excited to return to South Florida, the place that reminds me of my hometown back in Europe where I spent my childhood and to also be with my family. My specialty is adult psychiatry including psychiatric disorders associated with neurological comorbidities.

In my spare time I enjoy being outdoors rowing or playing tennis, as well as reading a good book on the beach. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family. Listening to my patients, and learning their life stories is very important to me as we partner to understand what is happening, what you are going through and allowing me to take that journey with you.

Dr. Alessandra Ferrera MD

I am originally from Lima, Peru and raised in Miami. Growing up I enjoyed playing tennis and reading as much as possible. Upon high school graduation I decided to stay close to my family and attended the University of Miami. During my time there I became an avid fan of the Hurricanes and graduated with two bachelor’s degrees, one in Neuroscience and one in Economics. As much as I loved South Florida, my desire to become a physician and my husband’s job took us to the Midwest. There, I had the pleasure of attending Indiana University School of Medicine for both medical school and residency. IU is the largest medical school in the country which provided me with a wide variety of experiences and opportunities during my training. During residency I was part of the research track which allowed me to publish a variety of manuscripts and a book chapter in Psychiatric Genetics. As much as I enjoyed working there, being far away from family (and the cold weather) I decided it was time to head back home to South Florida. When I’m not at work I enjoy spending my free time with my husband and children trying out new cuisine, traveling, and playing tennis.

Working with patients in my field has been a privilege. My goal is to help patients feel safe and supported while providing treatment and guidance to help improve their lives. It is important for me to provide individualized care and to tailor treatment plans to what works best for each person. I have been described by others as empathetic, respectful, hardworking, and open-minded. I look forward to meeting you.

Dr Kayla Anthony MD

As an adult psychiatrist in South Florida, I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, grief, trauma, and emotional eating. My passion for psychiatry stems from my desire to help people overcome mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I believe in a patient-centered approach that builds a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and empathy. I also recognize the importance of treating each patient as unique and tailoring my approach to their specific needs.
I completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Central Florida, where I served as the outpatient clinic chief during my last year of training. I am an active member of the Florida Psychiatric Society, American Psychiatric Association, and Obesity Medicine Association.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring all the kid-friendly activities South Florida offers. I am enthusiastic about traveling, experiencing new cultures, and meeting new people, which has helped me become an even more compassionate and understanding psychiatrist.
I would be honored to work with you if you are looking for a psychiatrist committed to your mental health and well-being. For me, mental health is not a destination to reach but an ongoing process of self-discovery and growth that we can embark on together. I would be honored to walk alongside you on this path. We can explore your concerns and develop a plan tailored to your needs. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you’re ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.

Dr. John Daula MD

I moved to Florida after leaving the Army to put down roots for my children and be closer to my family. I graduated from the United States Military Academy in 2006 and went into the Army Reserves to attend medical school. While studying at the New Jersey Medical School, I discovered a passion for psychiatry working with veterans in East Orange, NJ. After graduation I entered active duty military service and completed my Psychiatry Residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI.

My time as an Army psychiatrist offered me the wonderful opportunity to work with and treat individuals from diverse backgrounds. I spent nine years moving around the world taking care of our service members, their families, and our veterans. I had the privilege of serving in Alaska, Iraq, South Korea, and Italy and I plan to continue my service in the Army Reserves. I have been told that I am an approachable, discerning, and thoughtful physician who offers a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. In my spare time, I enjoy playing and watching sports, exploring nature, and spending time with my family. I am a New York sports fan, Let’s Go Mets! I love to travel but after seeing much of the world I am set on exploring America with my children starting with the National Parks.

Dr. Bruce Eimer, Ph.D., ABPP

I moved to South Florida in 2019 from Philadelphia where I practiced psychology since 1986. I have been in private practice for 35 years providing counseling and hypnotherapy to individuals and couples. I was the Director of Pain Psychology at a major teaching hospital for seven years and I have held multiple clinical appointments at numerous hospitals. As a licensed clinical psychologist in Florida I am a Board-Certified Diplomate in Behavioral & Cognitive Psychology with the American Board of Professional Psychology and a Certified Hypnotherapist. I specialize in treating trauma survivors and people with anxiety, depression, grief, and chronic pain.

I enjoy teaching and routinely provide training workshops to professional therapists across the United States. As an avid writer I am the author or co-author of nine books, as well as the author of dozens of book chapters and journal articles. On the personal side, I enjoy the outdoors, especially the natural wonders of Florida, working out, and spending time with my family, my friends, and my German Shepherd Dog.

I use EMDR, solution-oriented hypnosis, hypnotherapy, and energy psychology to help people make desired changes rapidly. My goal as your therapist would be to provide a secure base for us to collaborate in helping you evolve into your best self. My therapy is client centered which means I fit the techniques I employ to your individual needs

Lauren Berner LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Florida native. I have worked in outpatient settings, hospitals, and treatment centers throughout Palm Beach and Broward County for over 7 years. I follow a treatment philosophy that focuses on all individuals deserving to be treated with dignity and respect and I choose to do so by ‘meeting you where you are at’ along with warmth and a confidential safe environment to start your journey of building a life that you desire. I have had great success treating clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addictions, and trauma; along with many other mental health disorders.

In my spare time I enjoy being outdoors, preferably with my husband and our 2 year old Flat-Coated Retriever. My activities of choice include scuba diving, fishing, running, yoga, and swimming. As a firm believer in self-care I also enjoy the occasional visit to the spa for a massage and pedicure.

Beth Greenstein LCSW

I am originally from Long Island and Queens but now reside in Florida after my father, like most of us, decided he couldn’t go through one more snowstorm. My areas of special interest are anxiety, medical concerns, life transitions, grief and depression. I feel compassion, knowledge, coping skills and new actions often result in successful outcomes. My belief is that we are all in the same boat, as evident by an encounter with Dr. Anna Freud, granddaughter of the famous Dr. Sigmund Freud. She was set to be part of a panel at a conference. I was in the bathroom when she came in and advised me, a complete stranger of her nervousness!!

Personally, I am excited about being a grandmother of twins and to watch my children thrive. Additionally, I am an avid reader, active in an all-volunteer dog rescue and I exercise regularly.

Betsy Pearl LCSW

My name is Betsy Pearl and I have been a practicing therapist in the state of Florida for the last 25 years. I am originally from Baltimore Maryland where I received my master’s degree and started my career at Johns Hopkins. Like most of us I moved to Florida after a very bad winter. I am just not a fan of the cold weather and I haven’t since looked back.

I have worked with a multitude of different people from teenagers, adults and geriatrics in a myriad of settings that include inpatient care in hospitals to currently outpatient private practice. I truly thrive when I see people start to feel better after utilizing newly learned coping strategies or therapeutic techniques to deal with depression, grief, anxiety and relationship issues. My goal is to help people live a better, happier and more fulfilling life. I will commonly help instill mindfulness based techniques and the practice of daily self-centered and grounded principles in order to feel whole.

When I am not working, one can find me with my dogs as I am an avid animal lover. I also enjoy listening to live music and exercising.

Merri Schiff LCSW

My passion for helping others began at a young age, volunteering in middle school. This was the start of my life long career of over 35 years working as a Social Worker with people in various scenarios; the past 19 years, primarily with elders and their adult children. The sandwich generation is my particular area of interest; a place in life for people caring for their parents, their children, all while trying to find a peaceful and meaningful place in life for themselves. I’ve also worked with adolescents and young adults – navigating their life in new and challenging spaces.

My intention as a therapist is to build a collaborative relationship; creating a genuine, compassionate and nonjudgmental human interaction. My approach is very eclectic and interactive; I believe that everyone has the capacity to find meaning in their life, identify early childhood roadblocks and learn to love and accept themselves for who they are. The road to finding self-love is lifelong and I would be honored to take this journey with you.

Outside of work my interests include meditation, motorcycling, RV life, music and trying new ethnic cuisines all of which I share with my husband. I’m fortunate to be an adoptive parent, step-parent, grandparent, and pet parent to 2 large dogs and a chatty African Grey Parrot.

Janette Pellus, LCSW, C-DBT

Life has shown me we do not have control over all situations in our lives, but finding meaning and purpose in these experiences can provide a framework for personal growth and development. Empowering others to safely explore their thoughts and feelings, to understand the origins of their problems, and to experience greater self-awareness and self-acceptance has become my life purpose.

I am a therapist with many years of specialized experience in individual and group psychotherapy in a variety of challenging clinical and institutional settings. I use a broad range of therapeutic modalities with expertise in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Schema Therapy and Buddha Psychology.

I have always been drawn to the esoteric and the non-obvious dimensions of life and I began my career in the healing arts as a massotherapist and astrologer. My greatest joy is helping others see new capacities in themselves and experiencing a greater sense of connectedness. In my spare time, I enjoy the beach, reading astrology books, gardening and spending time with grandchildren.

Carly Washor, LCSW

From an early age, I’ve been drawn towards understanding and connecting with the fascinating world around me. I always knew I would work carefully with the intimate lives of others and their unique complexities; drawing in richness of each person’s distinct experience through the lens of clinical practice.

Throughout the past decade, I have worked in a myriad of settings and in a variety of roles with people who wish to better understand and transform their relationship with themselves and the larger relational world around them. It is my aspiration as a clinician to foster the therapist/client relationship on a foundation of appreciation, understanding, and conscientiousness. I am forever passionate about working with others to enhance confidence, dignity, awareness, insight, self compassion, and improve upon life skills. I take honor in collaboratively supporting my client’s with attachment wounds, developmental & complex trauma, neurodiverse experiences, life transitions, relational issues, stress patterns, which encompass the human experience.

Along the journey as a Licensed Clinical Social worker, I have completed training to assist with improving and decreasing traumatic symptoms through EMDRIA’s EMDR course. I also hold a Certified Masters Level Addiction Professional accreditation (MCAP) and I am a certified practitioner in the alternative metaphysical Japanese Medicine; Reiki, which lends its hand as a gentle complementary practice to any psychotherapeutic approach.

Erin Morgan LMHC

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 7 years of experience at outpatient and residential treatment centers in Connecticut and Florida. I am originally from Connecticut and moved to Florida in 2015 after completing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University. I also received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Neuroscience from the University of Connecticut. I have worked with clients with a variety of mental health and substance use disorders and have helped them with issues such as change, anxiety, depression, and trauma. As a therapist, I truly enjoy learning about my clients, building a healthy relationship and providing them a safe environment to assist in reaching their goals.

In my free time I enjoy being outdoors, paddle boarding, snorkeling, hiking, and playing tennis. I enjoy cooking and trying different restaurants and cuisines. I love to read, watch movies, and spend time with my husband and two cats.

Courtney Fixelle LMFT

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and take a systemic approach to therapy. I view therapy as a way to help clients in a way that makes sense for them. Life is full of transitions that challenge us in unique ways. I think people come to therapy with a purpose, to make changes in their life. I help people not only understand themselves better, but their relationships. My goal is to help you feel empowered to live the life you have always imagined for yourself.

I have worked with clients that have a variety of mental health and substance use disorders. My areas of special interest are relational issues, life transitions, stress, and anxiety. I am an advocate of self-care for my clients and myself. When I am not at work, I am usually with my English Bulldog or baking some delicious treats.

Anthony Torres LCSW

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over two decades of experience in the mental health field. I was born in New York City and raised in Utica, a small city in upstate New York. Following High School I enlisted in the military and worked in various treatment settings which included inpatient psychiatry, outpatient mental health, and a yearlong deployment to Iraq where I provided combat stress services to deployed troops. I have worked in both federal and private treatment facilities since becoming a licensed therapist in 2018. I have gained valuable experience with various populations in addressing Anxiety, Depression, and Posttraumatic Stress. My approach is a client-centered, strength-based approach that emphasizes empowerment and resilience. I hold a MS in Psychology from Albizu University and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Barry University.

In addition to my clinical work, I am a poet and theater artist. I enjoy using creative expression to initiate dialogues about mental wellness and explore the totality of the human condition – ranging from grief and suffering to love and growth. I am a father of two beautiful daughters, and a doggie daddy to two high energy Boston Terriers.

Catherine Stormont LCSW

I am a native Floridian and have been working in the mental health field in Palm Beach county since 1995. I specialize in creating a safe and comfortable space to share your thoughts and feelings and support you through whatever challenges you may be facing in your particular time of life and circumstances. I believe that when a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship is established between patient and clinician, the impossible can become possible. Most of my career has included working with patients that have a history of trauma and associated conditions of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I love working with families and improving communication and promoting healthier relationships. I think my combination of professional experience and personal life experiences bring a special understanding and compassion to the therapy process.

When I’m not working I enjoy being outside at the beach, on the golf course, exercising and spending time with my family. I feel grateful to live in such a beautiful and active locale and I am always looking forward to the next adventure.

Chana Cohen LCSW

Ever since I was a little girl I knew I wanted to help people in need. It has been my mission to service others especially to those who are in pain or lost. I have been practicing for over 20 years and provide a wide variety of techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and much more.

I have worked with a wide variety of clients including individuals, couples, families and children. I have provided services to people dealing with all types of life issues including depression, anxiety, grief and so much more. I am extremely open minded and would love to help you on your journey here.

Lorraine Blum LCSW

I have been in the field for over twenty-five years and offer effective, professional, and caring counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I am a Fellow on the National Board of Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists and have garnished skills treating a vast array of mental health disorders. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, pain, psychosis, weight, and self-esteem issues. I use an individualized treatment approach, and incorporate both traditional and experiential techniques into my practice. I work to not only treat symptoms, but to address the underlying root cause that is exacerbating the problem.

I am truly passionate about providing quality and compassionate psychotherapy to those in need. I consider each day that I can use my clinical skills to improve a person’s life and sense of well-being to be an honor.

Tammy Staples LCSW

I am originally from Maine and opened my first private practice in Connecticut where I raised my two children. After some time we admitted defeat with the winters of New England and moved to Florida so my husband could follow his career as a US Marshal. I continue to love working with clients while enjoying time with my family, reading, exploring new places, dining at new restaurants, and lets not forget about our lovely beaches. I take a holistic and patient-centered approach to the care of my clients and I work in collaboration with other psychiatrists here at Boca Raton Psychiatry to meet every ones unique and tailored needs.

I am a licensed clinical social worker providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults ages 16 and up. With 26 years of experience I have come to specialize in women’s issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, ADHD, and the LGBTQ population. I believe life is a journey through self-exploration and I hope you allow me the opportunity to be on that journey with you.

Joshua Weaver LMHC

From an early age, I’ve known what it’s like to face adversity. I beat childhood cancer twice and in recent years dealt with a brain tumor. As a survivor of many serious health diagnoses, I’ve made it my life’s work to help others overcome their own challenges. I began my career serving clients through nonproﬁt work, specializing in treating severe and persistent mental illness including Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder as well as substance abuse. These continue to be my areas of expertise.

Clients that work with me as their therapist should know that my approach to therapy is straightforward and practical. I’m well-versed in treating complex issues, such as trauma and addiction, with evidence-based treatment modalities. I am a trained EMDR practitioner as well as a Master’s Level Certiﬁed Addiction Professional.

I’m a Michigan native but have called South Florida home for many years now. My wife and I dote on our two dogs and are supporters of Boca Raton’s Tri-County Animal Rescue.