Char Mercer
Hi, my name is Charnita, but I prefer to go by Char. Born and raised in Maryland, I've been working in the mental health field since 2015 with 10 years of experience including both graduate-level and clinical practice. My work spans across diverse settings- from community-based crisis intervention to emergency psychiatric environments, with a various populations that include individuals, families, veterans, those involved in the justice system, those experiencing homelessness, and the LGBTQ+ community. These experiences, combined with challenges I've navigated personally, shape how I approach therapy and deepen my understanding of resilience and growth. I use a practical, strengths-based approach, helping clients recognize and build on the resources they already have while exploring the shifts they're ready to make. My style is collaborative and rooted in actionable steps; we focus on what matters most to you and identify realistic steps to move forward. I aim to create a space where therapy feels supportive, empowering, and tailored to each client's unique journey.
First session
In our first session, instead of starting by unpacking the problem, I'll ask you to explore your best hopes for working together- what would feel different in your life if things were going well, and how will you know you've made meaningful progress? We'll talk about what matters to you the most, what success looks like from your perspective, and begin to identify the small, practical steps that can move you towards those outcomes. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, empowered, and clear about the changes you want to see, so that therapy is purposeful from the very first session.
Strengths
I'm a therapist who loves helping people see the strengths and resources they already have and use them to create real, tangible shifts in their lives. My years of work in crisis intervention and with diverse populations, has taught me how to meet people where they are and to help clients to find hope even in difficult situations. I've come to value hope deeply, it's what gives us the courage to move forward, even when things feel difficult or uncertain.
Ideal clients
Life transitions can create a sense of being between versions of yourself- no longer who you were, but not yet who you're becoming. This in-between space often brings questions about direction, identity, purpose, and what truly matters. It's a place where familiar routines no longer feel right, but the next step hasn't fully come into view. I tend to work best with people I work best who are in that phase of life. Maybe something big has shifted- a career change, becoming a parent, a shift in or ending of a relationship, a move or a change in what you believe about life. Or maybe nothing dramatic happened, but something inside you is nudging you to slow down and ask, "What do I actually want now?" People who connect with my style are usually reflective, open to exploring their inner world and seeking a space where they don't have to have everything figured out already. They're not just looking to solve a problem; they're looking to understand themselves better. They want to talk about what feels off, what feels missing, and what they want to experience more of moving forward. I'm here to support those who appreciate honest conversation and practical steps rooted in your strengths that highlight what's already working. We will explore what's shifting, what feels meaningful, and what new direction feels right for this stage of life.
Treatment methods
Solution-Focused Brief Treatment
I prefer using Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) because it emphasizes your strengths and what you want to create in your life. In sessions, we explore your desired outcomes and identify small practical steps that move you toward them. The process is collaborative and empowering, helping you make meaningful changes while building confidence in your own abilities.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- MarylandLicense 22928