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

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.

Welcome to Harbor Hope Psych Care. I have taken care of clients for over 25 years. I am a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in family and psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. With a strong foundation in both psychiatry and family practice, I bring a perspective to care recognizing that mind and body are deeply connected. I have experience in adolescent psychiatry. I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy.

I received both my Bachelors and Masters degrees from Central Michigan University. I have worked in hospital settings as well as private practice. I have had great success with the virtual format and am thankful for such ease for my clients to have sessions without the trouble of travel. I work primarily with teens and women, working to build skills to manage a variety of snuggles.

I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in mental health and primary care, committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. I earned my advanced practice degree from Wilkes University and have experience working with diverse populations across various clinical settings.

My approach is collaborative and holistic—I believe in treating the whole person, not just symptoms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and life transitions. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.

I utilize evidence-based treatments, including medication management when appropriate, and incorporate supportive and solution-focused approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. My goal is to help clients achieve stability, improve daily functioning, and enhance their overall quality of life.

I understand that seeking help can be a big step, and I am here to support you throughout your journey with respect, empathy, and professionalism.

As a DNP-prepared, board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I firmly believe everyone has the right to quality mental health care. With many years of experience in mental health and a diverse nursing background, I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment. This is a space where you can feel secure, understood, and empowered to achieve your optimal mental health. Congratulations on taking the first step toward living a fulfilling life.

With over 15 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals navigate the challenges they face and find peace within themselves. Together, we can work towards culminating a healthier and more fulfilling future.

When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my dogs, hiking with friends, cooking, and making flower arrangements. I also enjoy spending time doing artsy activities or attending local events.

Whether you are struggling with depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, building intimacy in relationships, responding to emotions, or the stress of being human, it is key to know that you are not alone. I offer a safe and comfortable space to explore these struggles.

Very empathic, resilient, welcoming and non judgmental.