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About Me

Meritt Drake

Liscensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania

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I’m originally from the southwest, and received my bachelor's degree in writing from Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. After some time in the Peace Corps in The Gambia, West Africa, I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from New York University. Throughout this time, I have worn many hats, from teaching fifth graders math and science, to working at the United Nations, to providing therapy for women and immigrant populations across New York City.

For the past few years, I’ve settled in Philadelphia and have provided therapy to healthcare professionals. I have experience in providing group, individual, couples, and family therapy.

Outside of the therapy realm, I have two cats and a dog, all of whom love to make cameos from time to time during telehealth sessions. I love reading, and am always happy to bounce book recommendations back and forth. I’m also a hobby artist, mostly working in fiber arts, acrylic, and oil painting.

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My Approach

My approach to therapy is strengths-based. My training was based upon a psychodynamic perspective, essentially meaning your past impacts who you are today. For this reason, our work will involve addressing your current challenges, as well as your past patterns and experiences.

My style is relaxed, but based on proven methods and modalities. I don’t believe therapy has to be a formal, worksheet-heavy process, but should be tailored to your likes/dislikes and learning style. I enjoy looking for the humor in life and building on the strengths you already possess. I will always seek to build a relationship that feels comfortable and safe, but where we can challenge each other.

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“I believe that a different therapy must be constructed for each patient, because each has a unique story. ”
— Irvin D. Yalom

    • Cognitive Processing Therapy

    • CBT for Nightmares and Insomnia

    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

      • Advanced training regarding use for trauma and anxiety

    • Schema Therapy

    • Narrative Therapy

    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

    • Advanced training in:

      • IFS techniques for EMDR

      • Physical pain protocols

      • Flash technique

      • Attachment work

    • DBT skills for PTSD

    • Mindfulness and meditation

    • Ego Therapy and Parts Work

Modalities & Training