Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Venice, FL covered by United Healthcare

Hi everyone, my name is Kim, but I go by my middle name Kristy. I have a passion for helping people, I do specialize in trauma but have worked in most areas of mental health. My education is in clinical psychology and clinical mental health counseling.

I work with clients that feel stuck or unsure, but want to change this and are motivated to pursue this change. Seeking counseling is a tough first step, but you are here; you did it! Please feel free to contact me to discuss your journey, your goals, and how I may support you.

Hi there! I’m so glad you found your way here, I’m Merlyn. What drew me to therapy wasn’t theory, but the quiet moment when someone feels safe enough to exhale, speak their truth, and realize they were never too much to be understood. Healing isn’t about fixing yourself; it’s about understanding the parts of you that had to fight, protect, and survive.

I also provide Christian-integrated counseling for women who share this faith, helping you explore your struggles through both science and Scripture, where psychology and God’s truth work together beautifully. This blend honors both emotional and spiritual healing, creating space for restoration that feels whole and grounded.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida and the founder of Merlyn Asencio Psychotherapy & Wellness, LLC. I specialize in working with high-functioning women, the ones who appear composed, capable, and self-aware, yet feel anxious, disconnected, or exhausted on the inside. As the creator of The Merlyn MethodTM, I combine attachment-based EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and narrative therapy to help you reconnect with your voice, rebuild confidence, and experience peace that lasts beyond the session.

I believe therapy works best when there is a strong connection between therapist and client. My style is warm, genuine, and direct. I'll offer compassion and support, but I'll also help you recognize patterns that may be keeping you stuck.

As a trauma-informed therapist and EMDR specialist, I create a space where you can be yourself without judgment. Clients often tell me they feel comfortable with me quickly because I show up as a real person—not just a therapist.

I believe healing happens through both insight and action. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and empowered to create meaningful change in your life.

I am licensed in Florida with over 25 years of professional experience in the field of substance abuse and mental health. I have helped others with stress management (work or personal), anxiety, learning how to live a sober life, and dealing with the pressures of everyday living

Do you constantly worry? Do you overthink plans and solutions to worst-case outcomes so that you feel prepared? Does everything have to be done perfectly? Do you have difficulty handling uncertainty? Do you fear making the wrong decision? Do you feel restless? Having difficulty with sleep? Do you move from relationship to relationship? I specialize in helping those suffering from anxiety, including health care professionals and veterans. You don't have to continue suffering. As a seasoned therapist, I can help empower you to stop the cycle of worry and anxiety, find your sense of purpose, become the best version of yourself, and reclaim your life.

Viktor Frankl said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation -we are challenged to change ourselves." He really knew what he was talking about. Each life transition inevitably forces us to navigate "stormy waters." If the challenge has become overwhelming, reach out and give me a call at 423-342-6422. Now seeing clients in Connecticut, Florida, South Carolina, and Texas.

Feeling anxious, depressed, unfocused, or having difficulty sleeping? You are not alone. I work with adolescents (14+) and adults of all ages. I primarily support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia, along with other challenges that can make everyday life feel overwhelming. Patients often describe me as calm, understanding, and easy to talk to, and my goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, supported, and truly heard. I provide personalized psychiatric care, including medication management and practical strategies to help you regain focus, balance, and a sense of control.

Specialties include:

• Anxiety disorders
• Depression & mood disorders
• ADHD & focus challenges
• OCD
• Trauma & PTSD
• Stress, burnout, and sleep difficulties
• & More!

Clients should know that I’m down-to-earth, non-judgmental, and a genuine person. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe enough to be real—no masks, no pressure, no shame. I bring warmth and care into the room, along with a sense of humor when it’s helpful, because healing doesn’t always have to feel heavy to be meaningful.

I’m also solution-focused and collaborative. That means we’ll spend time understanding what’s going on, but we won’t get stuck there. We’ll work together to identify practical tools, coping strategies, and small, realistic steps that can help you feel better in your day-to-day life. Above all, I care deeply about meeting you where you are and supporting you in a way that feels respectful, empowering, and aligned with your goals. If you do not see your insurance provider listed and you are interested in private pay, please email me at [email protected] or find me on Psychology today under Nicole McCray and send me a message.