What patients are saying
Overall rating
4.96
Average wait time
4.98
Bedside manner
4.97
“This is my fourth visit with Ms. Marlene Merchant.
She’s sensational.
Here’s why, she’s invested time in getting to know me. Marlene has targeted my goals and has giving me assistance in mapping out ways to manage my goals.
Most fruitful sessions.
Excellent listener.
I highly recommend her services.”
Helga T.April 14, 2026Video visit
“I've been wanting to go to therapy for a while and I was nervous about finding the right fit. Marlene has been amazing. I feel like I'm starting to understand myself more emotionally. Marlene is very patient and attentive, she is always respectful and honest. It's nice to have a listening ear that is able to see the real you and not make you feel ashamed about it. I'm looking forward to many more sessions and becoming a better verison of myself. Thank you Marlene!”
Sydney D.March 3, 2026Video visit
About Marlene Merchant
Focus areas
Anger Management
Depression
Sex Therapy
Anxiety
Eating Disorder
Stress Management
Confidence Issues
Relationship Struggles
Clientele seen
Teenagers (13-17)
Seniors (65+)
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Treatment approaches
Christian Counseling
Compassion Focused
Coaching
EMDR
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Psychodynamic
Identity
Gender
FemaleSexuality
StraightFaith
ChristianEthnicity
Hispanic or Latinx
Languages spoken
English, Spanish
Getting to know Marlene Merchant
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 20 years of experience in the field. I hold a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University, Hudson. My practice modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and motivational interviewing, all while focusing on your goals and aspirations. I work with adults, adolescents, and children in early childhood, primarily people of color in low-income communities. My holistic and empathic approach is encouraging to clients who are seeking therapy, especially for the first time.
I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, and stress as they continue to navigate everyday challenges. I strongly believe in and cheer for the success of the clients I work with. I'm passionate about what I do and invested in helping you develop the skills you need to make long-lasting positive changes in your life. One of the areas I work with many of my clients on is increasing their self-care practices so they are better equipped to deal with stress and anxiety. I truly believe everyone has value and deserves to experience joy and peace simply because they exist.
*** Please note this provider/office does not accept medicaid and/or medicare plans at this time.
What should a new client know about working with you?
I bring an empathetic style and approach to my sessions. I listen to learn more about the presenting problem(s) so I can then be most helpful to my clients. Throughout the first session I also ask more questions both for clarity and to learn more about my client overall. I strive to create a safe space, no judgment zone, for my clients to be their authentic self and thrive overall.
As a standard practice I utilize evidence based Cognitive -behavioral therapy (CBT) based off the idea that humans behave due to what was learned and for a purpose. This allows us to take a deeper dive into how our thoughts affect these behaviors. There is extensive research and science around CBT being effective in treating certain disorders, such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
At the beginning of a session starting with the initial one, I typically invite the client to share what’s been going on in their life, what’s bothering them, or whether there are any goals they would like to set or talk through. My clients are always invited to speak openly and honestly. I review the confidentially clause and expectations around it.
Each session is a problem solving session. The client describes their current situation or update since last session, feelings around it. I provide concrete feedback and as well as tools, including articles and assignments to practice on their own, to assist in resolving the problem.
Clients are encouraged to reach out in between sessions if they have questions that come up or need some support.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare Oxford
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $150 for 45 minutes
Ongoing session: $150 for 45 minutes
More information on payments and coverage
*** Please note this provider/office does not accept medicaid and/or medicare plans at this time.
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Long Island University, Hudson, Master's in Mental Health Counseling
Professional memberships
- Psi Chi, The International Honor Society in Psychology
NPI number
1407505837
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.96
Wait time
4.98
Bedside manner
4.97
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
885 reviews
Most relevant
Marlene is absolutely awesome. She makes you feel heard and validated. I can’t recommend her enough.
November 14, 2025Andrew H.Verified patientVideo visit
She really listened to me and provided for me a game plan to help me feel happier.
Less than 6 months agoChristine M.Verified patientVideo visit
Easy to talk to, listens and gives helpful insight to your situation. 5 stars!!
January 22, 2026Jennifer M.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene was great, this was my first time ever talk to someone and she made me feel soo comfortable
June 2, 2025Jocelyn F.Verified patientVideo visit
She is a phenomenal listener and somebody that provides great feedback!
February 20, 2026Andrew H.Verified patientVideo visit
I didn’t feel listened. She was definitely doing something else while I was talking and that happened very often
More than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
Marlene is engaging and constructive. A very positive personality who has been an excellent therapist for me.
November 15, 2024Initials hiddenVideo visit
Marlene is warm and professional. I enjoyed talking to her and she helped me work through a variety of things effectively.
More than 1 year agoJV
Marlene is great - just starting my therapy journey and so happy to have found her!
April 4, 2025Christopher E.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene is fantastic! She makes you feel
Comfortable and is so easy to talk to. I would recommend!
May 3, 2024Initials hiddenVideo visit
she strikes me as both competent and friendly, after the first session
June 20, 2025David C.Verified patientVideo visit
She was very attentive and listened well. I felt her advice was well thought out.
July 23, 2024Lisa A.Verified patientVideo visit
I didn't know what to expect and was pleasantly surprised by the experience.
June 4, 2024Jeanette R.Verified patientVideo visit
She’s great love talking to her she helps me figure out everything I have in my mind
November 6, 2022Wilson P.Verified patientVideo visit
Connected with Marlene right away and am looking forward to my next session!
More than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
The therapy went smoothly and I was comfortable talking to the therapist ??
August 9, 2022Wilson P.Verified patientVideo visit
Great communicator, No Judgement, very nice person.
June 15, 2022Initials hiddenVideo visit
This is my fourth visit with Ms. Marlene Merchant.
She’s sensational.
Here’s why, she’s invested time in getting to know me. Marlene has targeted my goals and has giving me assistance in mapping out ways to manage my goals.
Most fruitful sessions.
Excellent listener.
I highly recommend her services.
April 14, 2026Helga T.Verified patientVideo visit
I've been wanting to go to therapy for a while and I was nervous about finding the right fit. Marlene has been amazing. I feel like I'm starting to understand myself more emotionally. Marlene is very patient and attentive, she is always respectful and honest. It's nice to have a listening ear that is able to see the real you and not make you feel ashamed about it. I'm looking forward to many more sessions and becoming a better verison of myself. Thank you Marlene!
March 3, 2026Sydney D.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene is extremely attentive, honest, validating and immediately committed to playing a helpful part in your journey. I am super excited to have found Marlene and would highly recommend her to anyone.
January 16, 2026Koreen S.Verified patientVideo visit
Wonderful experience! Great listener!
September 26, 2025Ana V.Verified patientVideo visit
Great first session with Marlene. She was right on time, set up the ground for our first conversation, great listener and honest with clear next steps and recommendations. Looking forward to our next session.
Less than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
It is only my first visit but Marlene has a way to make you feel very comfortable. I felt like she genuinely cared about my situation and was eager to get to the root of it all. I look forward to our future sessions.
August 12, 2025Gillian S.Verified patientVideo visit
Incredibly smart, an amazing listener, emotionally intelligent, and someone I felt comfortable to open up to and trust their advice. My first overwhelmingly positive therapy experience.
July 23, 2025Andrew J.Verified patientVideo visit
She was so kind and understanding!
June 16, 2025Initials hiddenVideo visit
First time ever doing therapy and it was a pleasant experience. Definitely recommend, was worth the wait and already scheduled my next two visits.
April 28, 2025Rosaly L.Verified patientVideo visit
So far so good I had one session and it was amazing. I can tell she is very knowledgeable and I’m already booked for another session.
February 10, 2025Ashley H.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene wa amazing! First time we connected and it’s like she knew me, felt so genuine. Extremely grateful to have been connected with her .
December 18, 2024Perla R.Verified patientVideo visit
Amazing therapist!
November 11, 2024Syzana G.Verified patientVideo visit
I felt very comfortable talking with Marlene during our initial visit. She was genuine, understanding, and provided some great insight. I will definitely be booking with her again.
September 16, 2024Initials hiddenVideo visit
It was my first time doing therapy ever & Marlene was very attentive/ understanding of my feelings. I look forward to this new healing journey for me & am great my new therapist is awesome !
August 8, 2024Melanie V.Verified patientVideo visit
Great listener and is very proactive in addressing my concerns and personal goals for therapy. Looking forward to continue with her.
More than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
Marlene is a great listener and I feel we wasted no time in getting to the root of my needs and issues and working on a game plan to improve my life, marriage and sense of happiness. Thank you so much. She was prompt and understanding when I was 10 mins late
June 10, 2024Shireen B.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene is the best therapist I've worked with so far. I look forward to our session every week. I had doubts about whether my very specific situation was too niche, but she asked great questions and gave very useful tools for handling it!
June 1, 2024Initials hiddenVideo visit
I feel really comfortable talking with her, although I’ve only done two sessions I feel like I am able to be really open with her. I really look forward to continue my sessions
May 18, 2024Juan C.Verified patientVideo visit
First time ever doing therapy and I was made to feel very comfortable. I truly look forward to talking with Marlene again. She is a great listener and I look forward to continuing meeting with her.
May 13, 2024Juan C.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene is such a great practitioner. Her patience and the comfort she provides is invaluable. She always offers great advice and she has been of great help as I navigate through life’s challenges.
More than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
Marlene was an excellent listener and I felt more than comfortable opening up to her on our first session. She asked kind questions and let me share without feeling rushed or micro-managed. I would definitely recommend her and am looking forward to another session.
February 11, 2023Nina G.Verified patientVideo visit
Great person and great advice
February 9, 2023Tarquin B.Verified patientVideo visit
The first meeting with the doctor and I feel really good. She was kind, and gave great honest feedback. During my session I felt like she really wanted to get to know who I am as a person.
November 5, 2022Stephannie G.Verified patientVideo visit
Seeing Marlene was one of the best decisions I made in 2022! Marlene was able to explain things in a way that made sense, was able to give me insight into situations and I was able to move forward from things that had been weighing me down. 100% recommend Marlene.
More than 1 year agoHL
Marlene is very empathetic and knowledgeable. She listens intently and provides valuable feedback on a variety of topics. I am looking forward to future sessions with her.
August 14, 2022Kevin J.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene is amazing. She's a great listener and helps to validate your feelings while encouraging you to deal with them in a productive manner. She's gone out of her way to interface with other doctors I've seen and really takes the initiative to get you in a good place and will let you know how your progress is going. Highly recommended!
August 7, 2022Ryan M.Verified patientVideo visit
Highly recommend - great initial video session. I’m already using ideas Marlene presented to help manage some difficulties I’m facing. She is professional, personable, kind, empathetic & showed great communication prior to the session so I felt very valued & taken cared of.
July 24, 2022Shireen B.Verified patientVideo visit
Great first session
June 28, 2022Peter D.Verified patientVideo visit
Marlene was my first therapist I ever met with and really helped me through a lot. Going into it, I didn’t really know what to expect out of therapy. She truly helped me navigate a very difficult time in my life, help me make strides towards being the person I want to be, and be more aware of my actions and how they affect me. I highly recommend Marlene to anyone looking for guidance in relationships (not just romantic, but family/friends), big life changes, or just a comforting hand.
More than 1 year agoLM
My visit was amazing when I first met Marlene. I was going through some difficult times in my life and she helped me realize that it’s okay to not be okay, that life can have its sunshine after the rainy days, she helped me learn more about myself and remind me how proud she is of my journey. She helped me open up to some pretty good advice and suggestions. She will tell me about why i felt the way i did. She is a great listener and if i could recommend any therapist it would obviously be Marlene!
More than 1 year agoCY
So, I am in therapy with Marlene via BetterHelp online therapy. Getting help is one of the best decisions I have made, and Marlene is such a great therapist. I deeply appreciate her willingness to listen and to help. I would greatly recommend her to anyone seeking help.
More than 1 year agoNM
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
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How soon can I make an appointment with Marlene Merchant?
Generally, Marlene Merchant has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Marlene Merchant's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Marlene Merchant accepting new patients?
Marlene Merchant generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Marlene Merchant's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Marlene Merchant accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Marlene Merchant is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Marlene Merchant online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Marlene Merchant using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Marlene Merchant work with?
What are common reasons for patients to see Marlene Merchant?
Marlene Merchant frequently sees patients for Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, Sleep Problems, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Marlene Merchant on their profile.
What languages does Marlene Merchant speak?
Marlene Merchant speaks English and Spanish.
How do patients rate Marlene Merchant in reviews?
885 patients have reviewed Marlene Merchant. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.96/5. They have a 4.97/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.98/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.