Rubi Merino
Hi — I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and my passion is helping people feel heard, understood, and supported. I believe mental health care should be compassionate, evidence-based, and rooted in genuine partnership. I was born and raised in North Carolina and bring over 15 years of diverse nursing experience in acute care, primary care, and community health. That background shaped my commitment to holistic, patient-centered care — seeing the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Growing up in rural eastern North Carolina and being fluent in Spanish has helped me better understand and serve underserved and vulnerable communities.
I’ve worked closely with children and their families, as well as with minority and older adult populations, and I value the unique perspectives each patient brings. Growing up in rural eastern North Carolina and being fluent in Spanish has helped me better understand and serve underserved and vulnerable communities. In my practice, I take time to listen, educate, and collaborate. Together, we build treatment plans that reflect each person’s goals, values, and cultural needs. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where individuals and families can feel empowered on their journey toward wellness — across every stage of life. I’m honored to walk alongside my patients and their families, and I’m grateful for the trust they place in me.
First session
During our first visit, my goal is to get to know you — not just your symptoms. We’ll start by talking about what brought you in, your current concerns, and what you’re hoping to improve. I’ll ask questions about your health history, past treatments, important life experiences, and your strengths and supports. This helps me understand the bigger picture and make sure we’re moving in the right direction. We’ll also discuss options for care — such as therapy approaches, lifestyle strategies, and whether medication might be appropriate — and we’ll decide together what feels like the best plan. Nothing is rushed, and there are no “right” answers. I encourage you to ask questions, share any worries, and tell me what has or hasn’t worked in the past. By the end of the session, you’ll have a clearer idea of your diagnosis (if applicable), initial recommendations, and next steps. Most importantly, I want you to feel heard, safe, and supported — like you have a partner in your care from day on
Strengths
My greatest strengths lie in listening deeply, building trust, and creating a collaborative plan that truly fits each person’s life. My approach blends evidence-based care with a warm, culturally responsive perspective, ensuring patients feel seen, respected, and empowered. I combine therapy, education, and when appropriate, thoughtful medication management to support meaningful, lasting change. Patients often tell me they appreciate my calm, patient style, my ability to explain things clearly, and the way I involve families when helpful. Together, we focus on achievable goals that improve daily functioning, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Ideal clients
I am especially passionate about working with individuals and families who are looking for compassionate, culturally responsive support as they navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood changes, behavior concerns in children, life transitions, and the impact of stress or trauma. I work with patients of all ages, and bring particular experience supporting children, minority communities, and older adults. Many of the people I serve are seeking a provider who will truly listen, partner with them, and help them understand their symptoms while building practical tools for everyday life. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where we collaborate on clear, achievable treatment goals — honoring your values, your culture, and your pace — so you can feel more balanced, confident, and hopeful moving forward.
Treatment methods
Psychoeducation
Educating my patients about their mental health symptoms and how they impact daily life has helped patients understand treatment recommendations and improve treatment and medication compliance
Location
Virtual sessions