- Client-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
About LaVerne
LaVerne Merritt-Morrison is a New York LMHC with 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s degree in clinical counseling with a major in Addiction Counseling and has worked extensively with substance use concerns and co-occurring conditions. Her practice addresses issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, relationship concerns, and addiction-related problems.
She uses a client-centered stance in sessions, which means conversations focus on the person's priorities and experience. Motivational Interviewing is part of her work when people are ambivalent about change. She also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help identify patterns of thinking that feed distress.
Clients can expect straightforward, practical conversations aimed at clearer choices and next steps. Sessions often include exploring behaviors, noticing thought patterns, and setting small, achievable goals. The therapist draws on decades of work with substance use, dual diagnosis, and people managing life transitions.
Merritt-Morrison has experience with issues such as abandonment concerns, attachment difficulties, codependency, and compulsive behaviors. She has also worked with people dealing with HIV/AIDS, impulsivity, and a range of personality-related concerns. This background shapes how she plans sessions and supports coping strategies.
Her practice places emphasis on clear communication and collaborative problem solving. People looking for help with anxiety, panic, or social discomfort will find an approach that combines practical techniques and supportive listening. To arrange a first step, follow the site instructions to review online therapy options and schedule an initial meeting.
How her approaches translate to online work
LaVerne uses Client-Centered Therapy to center conversations on what matters most to the person. This approach focuses on listening, clarifying concerns, and shaping sessions around the client's priorities.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is used to spot unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns. Sessions may include simple exercises to test new ways of thinking and practical steps to reduce anxiety or panic symptoms.
Motivational Interviewing supports people who feel uncertain about change. It involves exploring ambivalence, strengthening motivation, and setting small, achievable goals in collaboration with the therapist.
Choosing an approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss options based on the client's needs, goals, and preferences and adjust methods over time to find the best fit.
Session formats are not listed in the biography, so confirm available options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit appointments into work or family schedules, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. These practical benefits help people try therapy with fewer disruptions to daily life.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
30+ years
Listed in
New York
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does she address?
She works with addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship and family concerns, stress, trauma, and related issues such as codependency and compulsive behaviors.
What is her therapeutic style?
The approach is client-centered, with elements of Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people make practical changes and clarify goals.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 30 years of clinical experience, including long-term work in substance use therapy and dual diagnosis care.
What are her credentials and where is she based?
She is a New York LMHC and practices from New York.
In which languages can sessions be held?
Sessions are offered in English and international clients are accepted.
What session formats are available?
Confirm current session options before booking, as formats are not specified in the biography.
How are fees handled?
Cost varies with location; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin the process?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.