Tonya Merlitti, BS., MS., CMHC, LPC 

My journey to becoming a therapist began with a deep-seated passion for education, which I pursued by earning my undergraduate degree in the field with the goal of becoming a classroom teacher. As I immersed myself in creative and integrative teaching methods, I discovered a profound interest in supporting not just students, but also parents and staff, particularly those working with neurodivergent learners. This led me to work as an intervention specialist, where I was involved in developing 504 plans, individualized education plans, and behavioral management plans.

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Transitioning from teaching to counseling was a deliberate and introspective process for me. I felt a strong desire to move to the other side of the educational spectrum and offer support directly to families in need.

In 2012, I took a significant step by enrolling in a master's program in clinical mental health counseling. This program provided me with specialized training in various aspects of development and emotional management, including child, adolescent, and adult counseling, parenting skills, couples counseling and family therapy. My final internship took place at North Coast Family Foundation, a truly remarkable and nurturing environment. It was there that I learned to weave Biblical practices and Godly wisdom into my counseling approach, enriching my ability to support and guide those I counsel.