LaVerne Merritt-Morrison

LaVerne Merritt-Morrison, LMHC, combines formal training and decades of clinical practice to address a range of concerns including addictions, trauma, relationship challenges, and mood disorders. She holds a B.S. in Human Services/Counseling and a master’s degree in clinical counseling with a major in Addiction Counseling from Fairleigh Dickinson University, earned in May 2004. Her licensure history includes being grandfathered in as a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor in September 2006 and as a Master Addiction Counselor with the National Certification Commission for Addiction Counselors on March 31, 2016.

Her clinical background includes 20 years of work in substance use therapy, 15 years supporting individuals with dual diagnosis, and five years in transitional housing settings for people with chronic medical conditions. She has completed specialized training such as a 60-hour Compulsive Gambling course at the Narco Freedom Institute and holds a Specialty in Gambling designation as well as a Credential Alcoholism Substance Abuse Counselor credential.

Merritt-Morrison integrates motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a client-centered stance to guide assessment and treatment. She lists areas of focus that include addictions, LGBT concerns, trauma and abuse, parenting and family issues, self-esteem, and a range of mood and anxiety-related presentations. She practices in New York and communicates in English.