Merly Costa, APRN

Merly Costa, APRN

Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
FL
4.67
“My experience with MH provider Merly was outstanding. Merly is a great listener, and positively addressed my doubts and needs. Merly's response and follow-up after session was remarkable. It was my first time booking for a MH provider from this office, and the first option was not available that day, so I met with Merly, but, after our meeting, I would love to stay with Merly permanently. Merly is affable, compassionate, professional, highly knowledgeable, and creates a welcoming environment. I appreciate her time and support.”
Noris M.November 5, 2025
Highly recommended
90% of patients gave this doctor 5 stars
Excellent wait time
98% of patients waited less than 30 minutes
New patient appointments
Appointments available for new patients on Zocdoc

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External video visit

Scheduling details

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What patients are saying

Overall rating

4.67

Average wait time

4.91

Bedside manner

4.85
“My experience with MH provider Merly was outstanding. Merly is a great listener, and positively addressed my doubts and needs. Merly's response and follow-up after session was remarkable. It was my first time booking for a MH provider from this office, and the first option was not available that day, so I met with Merly, but, after our meeting, I would love to stay with Merly permanently. Merly is affable, compassionate, professional, highly knowledgeable, and creates a welcoming environment. I appreciate her time and support.”
Noris M.November 5, 2025Video visit
“Merly Costa at MedBetter Health is amazing! Her telepsych sessions are so easy to access and very helpful.”
JCLess than 1 year ago

About Merly Costa

Focus areas

Anxiety
Depression
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Psychiatry Consultation
Bipolar Disorder

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)

Identity

Gender

Female

Languages spoken

English, Portuguese

Getting to know Merly Costa

With over three decades of experience in healthcare, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care through virtual telehealth services. I hold a Master’s in Nursing from Chamberlain University and specialize in supporting adults with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. My approach is patient-centered, holistic, and trauma-informed—tailored to each person’s unique journey toward healing. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in a wide range of settings, including crisis units, correctional facilities, hospitals, community health programs, and private practice. These diverse environments have deepened my understanding of how mental health is shaped by life circumstances, environment, and trauma. I’ve learned that healing is never one-size-fits-all; my goal is always to meet clients exactly where they are, with empathy and respect. Originally from a small island in southern Brazil, I was raised with a strong connection to nature, family, and community—values that continue to guide my life and work. I believe in practicing what I teach: living a balanced life rooted in whole-food plant-based nutrition, regular physical activity, and mindfulness. I find renewal in nature, whether walking in the forest or spending time by the ocean. I am also a lifelong animal advocate and currently live with four amazing rescue dogs who remind me daily of the power of connection and unconditional love. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish—and proficient in Italian and French—I welcome clients from all backgrounds and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive space for healing.

What should a new client know about working with you?

Working with me means entering a supportive, non-judgmental space where your experiences, challenges, and goals are respected and prioritized. I approach each session with compassion, curiosity, and a deep belief in every person’s ability to heal and grow. My clinical style is collaborative and personalized—I take time to listen carefully, understand your story, and work with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your needs, values, and life circumstances. I combine evidence-based psychiatric care, including medication management when appropriate, with holistic principles that address the whole person—not just symptoms. You can expect open communication, cultural sensitivity, and a steady commitment to your mental wellness. I understand that reaching out for support can feel vulnerable. My goal is to meet you exactly where you are—with empathy, respect, and a calm presence—and to help you feel safe and empowered throughout your healing journey. Whether you’re seeking support for the first time or continuing care, I’m here to walk alongside you.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

My process begins with truly getting to know you. During our first session, we’ll take time to explore your current concerns, personal history, and overall mental health goals. I’ll ask thoughtful questions, but always at a pace that feels comfortable and respectful. This initial assessment helps me gain a full picture of your unique experiences, challenges, and strengths. From there, we’ll collaborate on a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your needs, this may include medication management, supportive psychotherapy, lifestyle recommendations, or referrals to other specialists. I emphasize education and transparency—so you’ll always understand your options and have a voice in your care. Follow-up sessions focus on monitoring your progress, adjusting the plan when necessary, and providing consistent, supportive guidance. I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel heard and empowered throughout your healing journey. My goal is to support not just symptom relief, but long-term emotional wellness and resilience.

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In-network insurances

Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
100+ more in-network plans

Popular visit reasons

Agoraphobia
Anxiety
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Depression
New Patient Visit
Pediatric Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Psychiatry Consultation
Agoraphobia
Anxiety
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

Education and background

Practice names

Education and training

  • Chamberlain Univeristy, Master's in Nursing

NPI number

1588400261

Patient reviews

All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.67
Wait time
4.91
Bedside manner
4.85
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52 reviews
Most relevant
Merly Costa is wonderful—so thoughtful and experienced. Love that I can connect with her virtually via MedBetter Health.
I’m really impressed by the care I get from Merly Costa at MedBetter Health. The telepsych format is super convenient.
I feel heard and supported every time I speak with Merly Costa. She’s a gem at MedBetter Health’s telepsych team.
Merly Costa is a true professional in telepsych care. Thank you, MedBetter Health, for having her on your team.
I really appreciate how flexible and kind Merly Costa is. Her telepsych work with MedBetter Health is excellent.
Merly Costa is patient, caring, and professional. Love that I can meet with her via MedBetter Health telepsych.
Telepsych with Merly Costa has been life-changing. She’s part of the MedBetter Health team and truly cares.
I’ve been seeing Merly Costa through MedBetter Health’s telepsych program—she really listens and understands.
MedBetter Health’s Merly Costa is a fantastic provider. Her telepsych sessions are convenient and effective.
I recommend Merly Costa at MedBetter Health to everyone. Her telepsych approach is professional and kind.
Every telepsych visit with Merly Costa is reassuring and helpful. So glad she’s part of MedBetter Health.
Merly Costa at MedBetter Health is amazing! Her telepsych sessions are so easy to access and very helpful.
Can’t say enough about how helpful Merly Costa has been. MedBetter Health offers top-tier telepsych care.
Merly Costa offers great insight and support. I love doing telepsych with her through MedBetter Health.
I highly recommend Merly Costa at MedBetter Health. Her telepsych care has made a big difference for me.
Great experience working with Merly Costa. Her telepsych sessions through MedBetter Health are seamless.
Whether I’m home or traveling, I can rely on Merly Costa’s telepsych care through MedBetter Health.
Merly Costa from MedBetter Health helped me through a tough time with consistent telepsych care.
Merly Costa from MedBetter Health provides excellent telepsych care—compassionate and consistent.
With Merly Costa at MedBetter Health, telepsych care feels personal and supportive. She’s great!
MedBetter Health’s Merly Costa is the best—telepsych has never felt more personal and helpful.
With Merly Costa at MedBetter Health, I get great care from the comfort of home via telepsych.
Merly Costa makes telepsych feel easy and welcoming. So thankful she’s with MedBetter Health!
Thanks to Merly Costa at MedBetter Health, I actually look forward to my telepsych visits now.
Merly Costa listens, guides, and supports through every MedBetter Health telepsych session.
MedBetter Health’s telepsych program is amazing, especially with Merly Costa as my provider.
Merly Costa brings warmth and professionalism to every MedBetter Health telepsych session.
MedBetter Health connected me with Merly Costa for telepsych and I couldn’t be happier.
I trust Merly Costa completely. She’s a skilled telepsych provider at MedBetter Health.
Worst medical practice I have experience this year
Verified patientVideo visit
Would not refill the prescriptions as the appointment was for, just kept asking for medical records which takes time, these prescriptions need to be refilled
Verified patientVideo visit
My experience with MH provider Merly was outstanding. Merly is a great listener, and positively addressed my doubts and needs. Merly's response and follow-up after session was remarkable. It was my first time booking for a MH provider from this office, and the first option was not available that day, so I met with Merly, but, after our meeting, I would love to stay with Merly permanently. Merly is affable, compassionate, professional, highly knowledgeable, and creates a welcoming environment. I appreciate her time and support.
Verified patientVideo visit
Grateful for Merly Costa’s support. She’s with MedBetter Health and does telepsych visits that fit perfectly into my schedule.
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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Merly Costa?

Generally, Merly Costa has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Merly Costa's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Merly Costa accepting new patients?

Merly Costa generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Merly Costa's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Merly Costa accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Merly Costa is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Merly Costa online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Merly Costa using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Merly Costa work with?

What are common reasons for patients to see Merly Costa?

Merly Costa frequently sees patients for Anxiety, Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, New Patient Visit, and Psychiatry Consultation. You can see other visit reasons for Merly Costa on their profile.

What languages does Merly Costa speak?

Merly Costa speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

How do patients rate Merly Costa in reviews?

52 patients have reviewed Merly Costa. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.67/5. They have a 4.85/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.91/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.

ZocdocFamily Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse PractitionersMerly Costa, APRN