Hello, I'm Merlande

Pronouns: she/her

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in Minnesota

Supervised by MN Board Approved Supervisor Ana Zedginidze, LPCC

Telehealth Only

Can conduct therapy in English, German, French, or Creola

Accepting New Therapy Participants

My Story

Growing up, mental health was taboo in my family until a close family member was diagnosed with schizophrenia, which is one of the main reasons I became a therapist. Myths, Taboos and Stigma can often trigger the fear of coming across as weak and vulnerable in front of others, but I am here to tell you there is strength in vulnerability, it’s an inevitable part of the healing process, and I applaud you for making it this far in your healing journey, because initiating the healing process alone requires significant effort and bravery.

In my free time I enjoy playing classical piano, visiting new countries, experiencing new culture, food and languages. I also enjoy fishing, and running in the woods with my Doberman “Glühwein”

My Approach to Therapy

I use an eclectic approach of evidence-based treatment to help people understand their behaviors, thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Some approaches I use include:

cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
dialectical behavioral therapy
psychodynamic theory
interpersonal-based sessions
trauma focused CBT

With couples, I like to include attachment theory and The Gottman Method to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic space for healing.

As your therapist, I will meet you where you are.

We will proceed on our journey at a speed that suits you. From our initial interaction I will strive to establish a feeling of safety, ensuring you are ready to confront the challenging issues. I will find out what has been effective, or ineffective, in alleviating your distress and I want you to begin gaining from therapy immediately. As a result, you can anticipate leaving your initial intake/assessment session equipped with new skills to try out that can assist you in managing your distress more effectively. Even within an intensive framework, I will adjust to your pace to ensure you feel comfortable enough to delve into the deep, and at times dark, matters that led you to therapy.

Our Work Together

Embarking on the journey of healing can often present challenges. My aim is to facilitate this process for you.

Whether you are entering therapy for the first time, experiencing a crisis, seeking help and guidance for a recent or past life event, or simply wish to have a space to articulate your thoughts, my goal is to establish a secure environment for you.

Existence can be tiring; this world is saturated with negative messages that overwhelm our system and hinder our capacity to be fully present and appreciate life's gifts. I've observed that significant transformations happen internally when we start to question and alter these messages. Trust is essential to the healing process. Unveiling your true self demands immense courage and confidence. As your therapist, I will engage with you right at your current state, recognizing that you possess expertise regarding your own experience. I recognize that genuine and enduring change must occur according to our own conditions and at our own pace. Together, we will cultivate an inquisitive approach to effecting positive changes that can alleviate your current distress and enhance your overall quality of life.

I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, those eager to explore pathways to a more fulfilling existence, and those who are driven to implement change.

My areas of expertise include supporting individuals addressing LGBTQ concerns, relationship dynamics, depression, anxiety, grief, and substance dependency. I’m available to provide individual and group therapy.

Education

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley - Masters of Social Work