Elissa Martinez, PhD

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About Me

Hi, I’m Dr. Elissa — a Miami native, licensed therapist, and mom of two with over a decade of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s most challenging moments. I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, and relationship dynamics, and I bring both clinical expertise and genuine care to every session.

My approach is warm, conversational, and collaborative. Clients often tell me therapy with me feels more like talking to a trusted guide than being in a clinical setting — which is exactly how I believe healing should feel.

My Background

I earned master's and specialist degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Florida, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education from Barry University, where I now serve as an adjunct professor. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist, and a qualified clinical supervisor in the state of Florida.

Over the years, I’ve worked with people from all walks of life — from at-risk girls at the Pace Center for Girls to families in the foster care system, to individuals and their families navigating eating disorder recovery at one of the nation’s leading treatment centers, where I eventually served as clinical director and hiring manager. Today, in addition to my private practice, I’m the Director of Clinical Operations at Recovery Record, where I train clinicians worldwide and help develop the tools that shape how care is delivered.

Outside the Office

When I’m not working, you’ll find me spending time with my husband, two toddlers, and our very energetic dog. I love getting outside (when it’s not too hot!) and curling up with a good book whenever I get the chance.

A Note From Me to You

Taking the first step toward therapy takes strength.

Just visiting this page shows courage and self-awareness, and I honor that deeply.

Whether you're here feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or ready to begin, I’ll meet you right where you are.

Let’s start with a 15-minute consultation. It’s free, low-pressure, and a chance for us to see if it feels like a good fit. And if not? I’ll help guide you toward someone who might be.

Let's chat

About Elissa Martinez, PhD

My Clinical Approaches

I would consider myself an eclectic practitioner, mainly utilizing:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Narrative Therapy
Systems Therapy
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma

My Services

My Clinical Approaches

Individual Therapy
Couples Therapy
Family Therapy
Clinical Supervision (qualified supervisor Florida)
Clinical Consultations
Parent Coaching

My Areas of Focus

My Clinical Approaches

My Areas of Focus

Eating Disorders - adult
Eating Disorders - adolescent
Trauma (PTSD)
Anxiety
Depression
Family and Relationship Challenges
Life Transitions

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach me at elissamartinezphd@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What should I expect during my first therapy session?

You can think of a first session with me as a get-to-know-each-other conversation. I will provide information about the structure of therapy, about me as a therapist and answer any questions that you have. I conduct what is called a biopsychosocial assessment. That is a fancy way of saying that I am going to ask questions about many aspects of your life. I want to get to know about your health, family of origin, major life events, what you do for fun, etc. Sometimes this assessment takes two sessions. At the end of the biopsychosocial assessment, we will collaborate on goals for therapy. Also, at the end of every session, I will also ask for your feedback, because I want to make sure you are getting what you want out of our work together.

Do you take insurance?

I am not currently on any insurance panels. Therefore, clients self-pay. This allows me to practice without the bounds/pressures that insurance companies put on therapists and their clients. I do have a limited number of sliding scale slots, based on client need.

What is the cancellation policy at Elissa Martinez, PhD?

I totally understand that life can get in the way of scheduled appointments. I ask that you provide me with at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Otherwise, you may be charged a cancellation fee.

What ages do you work with?

I work with children (at least 8 years of age), adolescents and adults.