Dr. Barry Ladis

Dr. Barry Ladis

Existential Psychotherapist

You will be surprised how quickly I will make you feel safe and supported.

As an existential therapist, I’ll create a safe space for you to explore life’s fundamental questions. Together, we’ll tackle issues of meaning, freedom, and responsibility, aiming to increase your self-awareness and authenticity. I’ll support you in finding purpose and making meaningful choices in your life.

I also specialize in helping professionals challenged with the competing demands of work and family manage stress than can contribute to alcohol and substance abuse.

My former business background of 30 years as a CPA and CEO of a large company combined with my specialized training and experience treating substance abuse, enables me to connect with professionals on a very deep and intimate level with unconditional positive regard and no fear of judgment.

I work with a variety of presenting problems, such as mood and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), parenting challenges, adjustment issues, and difficulties with social functioning using a family systems approach.

I also have extensive experience in the treatment of trauma in children and adults who suffer co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in conjunction with substance use dependence.

Walking into my office will feel like a breath of fresh air.

For the initial session, I am totally present and listen to not only what brings you into therapy, but why now? You will feel supported and validated as we start the journey of your recovery and personal growth.

I like to start subsequent sessions with a check-in to allow you to review the high and low points of your week – unless you have a pressing issue that you prefer to process right away. I like to take turns “driving” the session depending on your mood and energy level.

After you have been in therapy for a few months, you will be able to celebrate the many gains you have made and adjust your goals as needed. I do not believe our journey will be successful until you have gained new insights about yourself and your growth in therapy. I am interested in helping you maintain this growth permanently.

A holistic approach tailored to your individual needs…

So, I combine a broad array of evidence-based therapeutic strategies including mindfulness and meditation to help ameliorate symptoms.

My work often includes the entire family system to ensure progress that will generalize outside of the therapeutic setting.

I also like to include a combination of modern psychoanalysis and cognitive behavioral techniques to help you identify unhealthy childhood patterns that are repeating themselves today.

You will see in my smile and enthusiasm a feeling of hope that will support your goals and well-being. You’ll see how the benefits I have received from my own therapeutic journey can benefit our work together!

About me…

When I’m not in the office…

I am active in my community and believe in giving back to help my community flourish. I enjoy meditation, being athletic, and am an avid skier.

My Areas of Specialty

  • Substance Use Prevention and Treatment
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Mood Disorders
  • OCD
  • Existential Crises

Therapeutic Modalities

  • Modern Psychoanalysis
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Family Systems
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • 12-Step Facilitation Therapy

Education and Training

  • Masters Level Certified Addiction Professional
  • MSW from Florida International University
  • Ph.D. in Social Work from Florida International University

Start your journey today…

If you are frustrated that you are not reaching your goals and finding meaning in your life, please call me at (305) 662-2686.

Let me be your guide as we start our wonderful journey of growth and healing together.