Marlene Merchant, LMHC

I have over a decade of experience treating adults, children, and youth of different ethnic and economic backgrounds. I bring a holistic and empathic approach to therapy which is especially encouraging to clients seeking therapy for the first time. Some of my specialities include helping individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and stress as they continue to navigate everyday challenges.

I’m a Bronx native raised in New York, born to Puerto Rican parents. My career has been focused in the field of social services, with 20 years of experience. I’m a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I love helping individuals rediscover themselves, their passion in life and other important forgotten parts. Your story matters to me. We will spend time understanding what you are experiencing and why so that we can start to create and build a new narrative together.

In my downtime I am an avid runner and health enthusiast. I’m currently training for the NYC marathon in November 2023. I am a foodie who enjoys going out to new brunch spots and shops for a fun afternoon. My deep love for sports and dance has been embedded in me since I was a child. There isn’t a tune I won’t attempt to dance to or a sporting event that I won’t attend if given the chance. I’m also very passionate about animals, children and nature. Being outdoors is calming for me and helps me to reset and be my best self.

My Practice- Available ServicesL 1:1 Individual counseling for Teens 14-18 and Adults 18-65 and older
Now Seeing clients virtually/remote from New York and Florida

While my approach is tailored to your individual needs, my training and background have been focused on psychodynamic therapy and especially CBT. Below is a blurb on the treatment modalities and some of the benefits in utilizing them during sessions.

Psychodynamic Therapy- This approach focuses on the unconscious processes and the impact on present behavior. This form of therapy is a good choice to treat a variety of mental health problems including Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, general anxiety and relationship issues. A goal of therapy is to increase your awareness and a greater understanding of the effects of your past experiences on present behavior and some life choices.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy- A type of Talk Therapy which is a common treatment option for a range of Mental health problems including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Marital/relationship problems, eating disorders, alcohol and drug use problems. CBT teaches you coping mechanisms for dealing with problems. Individuals gain greater insight into how their thoughts affect feelings and actions that follow. CBT helps you retrain your brain and to adjust negative thinking patterns.