Anytime we have a new therapist join our group we are very excited to highlight the unique strengths and areas of specialization they bring but also to get a feel for who they are a person and therapist. To that end we share a brief interview with our newest addition Merari Flores Saldana LCSW.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a therapist?
The realization that at least one person can be so impactful in someone’s life. This realization came from several influences growing up such as a friend sharing her story with childhood trauma, and how impactful it was to have a caring therapist in her life. I also realized in school I was never really interested in the core subjects but was very inspired by human connection. Volunteering in my community helped me explore what a career in “human connection” could look like. I spoke to a lead therapist at a child advocacy center I was volunteering at and was inspired to hear her stories about her kiddo’s resilience from adversity; I learned that at least one caring person in someone’s life can make a great impact. I realized that holding space for someone, witnessing their story, and guiding them toward reclaiming themselves is one of the most meaningful things I could do.
What is your favorite thing about being a therapist?
My favorite thing is witnessing growth in real time—those quiet shifts when someone starts to challenge a long-held belief, set a boundary for the first time, or speak to themselves with compassion instead of criticism. It’s incredibly powerful to be a part of that journey and to see people reconnect with parts of themselves they thought were lost or never thought they had.
What are your specialties and what drew you to them?
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, OCD and anxiety disorders, and depression. I was drawn to trauma work because I believe healing is possible, even from the deepest wounds. I work with OCD and anxiety because it’s amazing to see people lean into uncertainty rather than fight against it and work towards facing their fears. Depression often overlaps with both, and I see the importance of helping people move from numbness or hopelessness into more meaningful living. I feel honored helping people feel safer in their own mind and body, especially when they’ve spent so long feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or misunderstood.
What makes you unique as a therapist?
I lead with authenticity. I believe people heal best when they feel genuinely seen and accepted, so I don’t hide behind a clinical mask. I’m human in the room—warm, attuned, and not afraid to be real. I’m not here to “fix” anyone, but to walk alongside them with empathy, insight, and encouragement. Clients often tell me they feel both safe and gently challenged, which is exactly the balance I aim for.
What is your favorite quote?
“Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” – Brené Brown
What is one thing that is important for anyone to know?
Healing doesn’t mean forgetting what happened to you. It means learning to carry it differently so it doesn’t define you, weigh you down, or silence your voice.
To learn more about Merari visit her bio page. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment or doing a brief phone consult with Merari please Contact our office.