Allison Merz, LMSW
Facing depression, anxiety, or trauma can feel overwhelming, and it often shows up in ways that make life feel smaller than you want it to be. I work with young adults and LGBTQ+ clients who are navigating identity, self-doubt, or the pressure to be perfect. Many of the people I see are trying to feel more grounded in themselves while balancing the demands of relationships, work, and creative expression.
I also support people in non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships, helping partners work through jealousy, build agreements that work, and manage family or community dynamics. I work with clients who are dealing with impostor syndrome, perfectionism, and burnout in high-pressure or creative fields. For others, therapy may center on recovering from complex or relational trauma (C-PTSD) and finding new ways to feel safe and steady in their daily lives.
My approach is authentic and collaborative. I draw from relational psychodynamic therapy and also use practical strategies from CBT and DBT when they’re helpful. I earned my MSW from New York University, a Master’s degree from Stanford University, and a BA from Mills College. Together, we’ll look at the patterns that keep you stuck, build resilience, and strengthen your confidence—so you can feel more connected in your relationships and more at ease within yourself.