Frances Merz (LPC)

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with over 19 years of experience working as a clinical counselor. I believe that when individuals seek counseling it is because they want to make changes in their lives. They may want to improve a life situation, solve a particular problem, make a decision, or achieve a greater understanding of life or personal circumstances. I utilize a variety of counseling techniques from an eclectic collection of theoretical orientation, based on the needs and strengths of the individual client. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including low self-esteem/self-confidence, social anxiety, anxiety, parenting problems, career challenges , and everyday stress that we experience. I enjoy working with college students, as well as individuals trying to work through transitions in their lives. I do not work with marriage counseling, relationship counseling,, or serious mental illness online. I am also interested in working with individuals who are contemplating weight loss surgery or are post weight loss surgery patients and are looking for a counselor experienced in this area. I also like working with clients who need assistance with medical advocacy. This is when a client is having health issues and is not sure how to maneuver the medical field, brainstorm questions to ask medical providers, and to cope with the overall issues of dealing with a medical situation. I have been involved in medical field through personal experience since I was a teenager and have learned some helpful tips along the way that I would like to share with others. Counseling is a joint effort, which can not be successful without your hard work, energy, and courage. I do not use a cookie cutter approach to treatment. Meaning treatment techniques are chosen based on your needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Not every approach works for everyone and I believe in being flexible so that my clients have the opportunity to get the most out of their time in counseling. I look forward to be able to support and empower you in your therapeutic goals. I look forward to working with you! A note on my availability: I want to let you know about my general availability for counseling. I think it is important to let my clients know when I’m available so they can know when to expect a reply to a message. I am available Monday-Thursday. I will usually return messages within 24 hours.