Merrisa D. Santos

Merrisa is a Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Provisionally Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with several years of experience in the field, currently working in a private practice setting. Her patient-first approach emphasizes simple, effective, and compassionate therapies that foster healing and growth. Known for her empathy, flexibility, and authenticity, Merrisa creates a non-judgmental environment where patients can feel safe to explore their stories and build resilience. As a bilingual practitioner, Merrisa integrates a multicultural lens into her work, honoring the unique cultural identities and lived experiences of her patients. Within her private practice setting, she provides counseling to individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life. She employs a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body, and spirit, weaving together neuroscience, mind-mapping techniques, and trauma-sensitive practices to help patients achieve balance and well-being. She is adept at addressing ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, family conflict, and challenges in self-regulation. Her therapeutic style draws on solution-focused, strength-based, person-centered, and narrative methodologies within a neurocounseling and trauma-informed framework. Among her areas of expertise are Psychoanalytic Techniques, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She also incorporates Art Therapy, crisis support, and trauma interventions when clinically appropriate. Merrisa’s credentials reflect her commitment to professional excellence and ongoing learning. In addition to being a Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor and Provisionally Licensed LCPC, she is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and holds multiple specialty certifications, including CCTMHP, CCTP, CCATP, CMIP, ADHD-CCSP, CAGCS, and WMHS. Currently a PsyD Candidate, she continues to expand her expertise in neuroscience, multicultural competence, and advanced trauma care. Working in private practice, Merrisa is dedicated to providing intentional, collaborative care supporting patients in cultivating clarity, resilience, and meaningful transformation.