LaVerne Merritt-Morrison, LMHC

LaVerne Merritt-Morrison is a licensed mental health counselor with three decades of experience. She earned 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. LaVerne has a long history of working with people facing substance use and related challenges, and she brings a practical, steady presence to sessions.

LaVerne uses a client-centered approach so people are heard and respected from the start. She draws on motivational interviewing to help people find their own reasons to change, and cognitive behavioral techniques to notice and shift unhelpful thoughts and habits. Sessions focus on clear, doable steps rather than jargon.

Her background includes extensive work in substance use therapy, dual diagnosis care, and transitional housing for people with chronic medical needs. She also holds a Credentialed Alcoholism Substance Abuse Counselor designation and completed specialty training in compulsive gambling. LaVerne’s work covers a wide range of concerns, from addiction and trauma to stress, anxiety, relationships, and parenting challenges.

People who prefer a straightforward, respectful style often find her approach accessible. She emphasizes collaboration and practical coping skills that can fit into daily life. Her experience in addiction and co-occurring conditions informs how she balances motivation, behavior change, and emotional work.

LaVerne practices in New York and communicates in English. She accepts international clients. If someone wants a therapist who combines long experience with a calm, action-focused style, her practice may be a fit.

How her approaches guide online work

LaVerne uses client-centered therapy to shape sessions around each person’s priorities and pace, giving space for concerns to be heard. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people identify patterns of thinking and everyday habits that get in the way, and then practice concrete changes. Motivational interviewing focuses on finding the client’s own reasons to change and strengthening motivation for steps they want to take.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will work together with clients to choose which methods fit their needs and goals. That means trying ideas, checking what helps, and adjusting as needed rather than sticking to one fixed plan.

The practical benefits of online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules. People often find it simpler to schedule meetings around work, caretaking, or medical appointments. If you want to learn whether remote sessions suit you and which options are available, confirm the current session formats before booking. This helps ensure sessions align with your daily life and treatment goals.