Hi, my name is Lissa Khema Merkel and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned her Masters degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the Mental Health track. I specialize in chronic illness and medical trauma as well as addiction in which I hold a LAADC (Licensed Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor). I also treat mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
I have a chronic illness so that work is very close to my heart and a population that needs support.
I am very collaborative as I feel each clients has their own individual needs for treatment. I do love CBT and if you're interested, I'll often suggest readings. I like to identify goals at the beginning of our work together so we have a roadmap for our sessions. I'm friendly, non-judgmental and, I must say, hilarious.
Hopefully, each session brings about a sense of forward movement on the issues you've come to therapy for but it isn't always like that, to be honest. It's my job to listen to what you're saying and to ask the right questions to unlock the answers we seek. I am NOT one of those therapists that will say, "Well, what do you think?" I'll tell you what I think to assist you in your own process. If we could figure it out on our own we wouldn't need therapy....
