Offering In-Person and Online Therapy
Hello, my name is Alia Merraro,
Is your relationship/marriage suffering from a communication breakdown, lack of intimacy/bonding, or unresolved conflicts? Is one partner leaning out of the marriage/relationship, and the other is leaning in?
As a seasoned couple’s therapist, I have a passion for fostering enduring love and deep connections. I specialize in guiding couples through the intricacies of relationships.
In my practice, I incorporate several evidenced-based approaches to empower partners to communicate effectively, navigate challenges, and rediscover the joy they once had. I am dedicated to helping you build a foundation of resilience, intimacy, and mutual understanding.
Do you often question who you are but are at a loss? You may lack clarity, understanding, or confidence in your sense of self. Perhaps you wear a “mask” to gain external validation and social acceptance. When I work with individual clients, I consider myself your partner on the journey to mental wellness.
With compassionate understanding and over ten years of experience, I am here to guide you through the path of self-discovery, resilience, and lasting positive change.
My area of expertise lies in working primarily with BIPOC young adults who feel they lack self-worth and are struggling with their sense of identity — who they are and where they fit into the world. I work with couples who are struggling with communication, intimacy and connection. I have extensive experience working with couples in need of discernment counseling — a specific type of counseling that helps couples decide whether they want to continue their relationship.
Why I’m a Therapist
There’s something incredibly rewarding about being a catalyst for personal transformation. I am dedicated to positively impacting people’s lives. I enjoy assisting people to navigate through many of life’s challenges, instilling hope, and fostering personal growth.
As a therapist, I guide individuals in discovering their strengths, resilience, and the potential for positive change within themselves.
I have always believed in the resilience of the human spirit. Every day, I get to witness the incredible strength individuals possess to overcome adversity and create meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Want to Know If Alia Is the Right Therapist for You?
What I Love About Being a Therapist
I find fulfillment in being the catalyst for positive change in the lives of my clients while building intimate connections.
This is my life’s calling — the ability to make a positive difference in someone’s life is what fuels my love for being a therapist.
I smile, knowing that what I do for a living doesn’t feel like work with a capital W, and that I feel passion, purpose, and meaning every day. Knowing that my work contributes to the well-being of others is immensely rewarding.
My Therapeutic Style
I create a warm, authentic, safe, and non-judgmental space for my clients. It feels “right at home.” I take an active, strengths-based, and solution-focused approach to helping clients explore and process their thoughts and emotions. My focus is on fostering connections and facilitating action steps to initiate positive change.
Fun Facts about Alia
I love going to Canada. Most of my family lives there, and I am incredibly family-oriented.
My favorite daily routine is anything self-care. I’m the self-care queen!
On my bucket list? Skydiving, for sure. I’m quite adventurous!
My Education and Experience
While earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Towson University, I worked at Sheppard Pratt Psychiatric Hospital as a mental health worker. My time at Sheppard Pratt Hospital was significant, inspirational, and empowering. It taught me a valuable lesson — even in the darkest moments, the human spirit has an innate capacity for resilience and recovery.
I went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Applied Psychology with a concentration in Counseling Psychology at the University of Baltimore. At that point, I had worked in an inpatient environment for six years and wanted to expand my clinical work to include community and outpatient facilities. I have worked with a diverse population of couples and young adults experiencing a broad array of psychological and emotional issues.
I have always believed that the capacity to learn is an eternal gift. Throughout my career, I have strived to polish my clinical skill set through several post-graduate trainings. It was my passion for continuing education that inspired me to become a board-approved supervisor working with up-and-coming counselors.
Interested in Starting Therapy?
Schedule an appointment here, call or text 410-801-9700, or email us at info@