Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Gainesville, FL covered by Cigna

Does your mind keep replaying conversations, imagining what could go wrong, or telling you that you’re not doing enough? Anxiety and overthinking can make it hard to feel present and trust yourself. Therapy can help you understand those patterns, quiet the mental noise, and build practical tools for feeling more grounded and confident. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

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.

You might look like you have it together—but inside, your mind doesn’t slow down. You overthink conversations, second-guess decisions, and feel constant pressure to stay “on” at school, work, or in relationships. When things finally get quiet, your brain doesn’t—it gets louder. I work with adolescents and young adults who are tired of feeling stuck in that cycle. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but internally overwhelmed, anxious, or mentally exhausted. They don’t just want to “talk about feelings”—they want real tools that actually help.

I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and support for gay, lesbian, and bisexual clients. For 16 years, I’ve helped people navigate crisis, chronic mental health concerns, and life transitions with care and clarity.

My experience includes inpatient psychiatry, corrections, community mental health, youth counseling, and hospital-based crisis care. I provide diagnostic assessments and therapy tailored to each person’s needs.

I’m committed to creating a supportive, goal-focused space where you can feel heard and understood. If you’re ready to begin healing and move forward, I’d be honored to work with you.

Welcome to Brain Balance Psychiatry, an integrative psychiatric model, based on provider-client alliance. Experience a collaborative partnership where you feel supported and empowered by your provider.

If your child is dealing with big emotions, school stress, conflict at home, or the ups and downs that can come with ADHD, oppositional behaviors, anxiety, or depression, you don’t have to figure it out alone. I enjoy working with tweens, teens, and young adults, and I help families better understand what’s going on so things can feel less overwhelming and more manageable. My goal is to help your child feel more grounded, understood, and hopeful.

I have a professional background in counseling with specialized training in substance use prevention and treatment. I also work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, and challenges with emotional regulation. My approach is empathetic, human, and person-centered, always honoring your unique story. I’m here to support you in reaching your full potential through a holistic perspective that values emotional, physical, and social wellness.