Gabriela Merida, LCSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Gabriela Merida

Gabriela Merida

(she/her)

LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual

Hello, my name is Gabriela, but you can call me Gabby.
I specialize in supporting women and teens who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. As a mother and wife, I bring a diverse and compassionate perspective to our sessions, blending personal insight with professional expertise.My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can feel truly heard, understood, and supported. Together, we will build a foundation for healing, growth, and thriving in the face of life’s challenges.I know how rare it can be to find a place where you feel fully seen, which is why I became a therapist—to create that space for you. Let’s take this journey toward resilience and empowerment, one step at a time.

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

In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions. Together, we’ll work on developing effective coping strategies, enhancing self-esteem, and building a healthier, more compassionate relationship with yourself. I incorporate evidence-based practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) (in training), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Therapy, Brainspotting, and more to tailor our approach to your unique needs.

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

My ability to genuinely connect with clients is one of my greatest strengths. My personality, combined with personal experiences growing up, allows me to relate to others on a deep and meaningful level. I listen to understand, not just to respond, and I show up to support you every step of the way. My focus is on creating a partnership where you feel truly seen and valued.

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

I specialize in helping women and teens navigate challenges related to self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, and trauma. It’s completely normal to feel nervous about starting therapy, but don’t let that hold you back from taking steps toward personal growth. Your emotions don’t have to control your life—I’m here to help you regain that control. I bring both professional knowledge and personal experience into each session, fostering a connection that reminds us we’re more alike than different. Let’s work together to create a life where you feel empowered, understood, and ready to thrive.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Brainspotting

Brainspotting offers a non-verbal pathway to process and release deeply held trauma or emotional pain that is often difficult to access through traditional talk therapy. It targets the body and mind's natural ability to heal by identifying "brainspots"—specific eye positions that correspond with emotional and psychological blockages. This allows clients to work directly with their brain's stored memories and emotions.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

By teaching clients to recognize and reframe distorted thinking, CBT empowers them to take an active role in their healing, promoting lasting change even after therapy ends.

Attachment-based

I've used Attachment-based therapy to help clients develop a more secure attachment style, whether they are struggling with anxious, avoidant, or disorganized attachment patterns. This can help improve emotional regulation, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships.

EMDR

In short, EMDR is an integrative treatment that helps process trauma in a way that allows individuals to release distressing emotions, alter maladaptive beliefs, and move forward in a healthier way.

Gabriela Merida, LCSW