Hello! My name is Gianna Merriam and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I attended UC Davis and gained a BS in Human Development and continued my education at San Diego State to receive a masters in social work and certification in Early Childhood - Socioemotional Regulation Intervention Specialist. I earned my license after completing my work as a therapist for children in the foster care system. I later became an educationally-related mental health therapist for students on Individualized Education Plans and now a Clinical Supervisor for School Social Workers and School Social Work Interns. I love teaching, coaching, and supporting persons of all ages in reaching their potential and managing life's stressors. I believe that each person has strengths and my aim to help those not only see, but embrace all parts of themselves.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session together, I will work with you to develop actionable goals and also take the time to describe what direction I would like to take treatment. I will discuss the type of therapy I would like to offer you, and describe how it works. I also like to ask if there are any other providers or persons you are working with to support your mental health. You can expect me to be curious, humorous, and motivated to see you grow!

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

What makes me unique as a therapist is that I have a clinical social work background and a background in human development working with clients as young as 2 years up to 77 years old. I enjoy discussing the neuroscience and theory behind human socioemotional development and how it can be practically applied in our lives. This knowledge has helped me be a versatile therapist that can address stressors from each stage of life. I find that dignity and self-determination in therapeutic treatment is my goal for each and everyone of my clients.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I love working with young adults 18-24 transitioning into adulthood. So much change happens between the ages of 18-24 and it can be incredibly challenging! Transitioning into higher level education, careers, relationships, and sometimes, parenthood. Let me guide you through these transitions and offer you the support and coping mechanisms that you can use for the rest of your life! I love offering therapeutic support to parents that have children with special needs as I am very well acquainted with school systems and IEP's. Seeing parents feel more confident and in control, while at the same time, feeling emotionally connected to their child, is my goal. I highly enjoy offering therapy to therapists. I was once told that "every good therapist has a therapist!" Being on the other side of treatment is such a phenomenal tool to impact compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, and burn out. Helping helpers is such a rewarding feeling and I appreciate the strength and vulnerability of those who seek support.

About Gianna Merriam