Merissa Goolsarran, LCSW

About Merissa

Merissa was born and raised in South Florida. Her family is of West Indian (Indo-Caribbean) descent, specifically from Trinidad and Guyana. As a neuroscience undergrad at the University of Miami, she conducted research in cognitive psychology and mindfulness. These experiences inspired her to pursue a career in social work and focus on mental health therapy.

In 2017, she earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Central Florida. Throughout educational and professional opportunities, she has worked with persons experiencing homelessness, financial insecurity, debilitating medical conditions, chronic mental illness, acute grief, substance abuse, relationship concerns, domestic abuse, major life changes, transitions after military service, and exclusion due to social identities.

​​As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), her passions are to increase accessibility to mental health services and support marginalized communities - especially first-generation immigrant groups and those of West-Indian descent. She finds being able to understand clients' cultural backgrounds to be an important part of the puzzle.

As a therapist, Merissa blends techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and narrative therapy. She tailors the approach to each client and listens to the client's preferences for how they want to learn and grow. She prefers to meet with clients on a weekly to biweekly basis to keep momentum going and help clients reach their goals.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, playing video games, watching Japanese and Korean shows/movies, and spending time in nature.

FL LCSW License - #SW17630