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Hi! My name is Merraf Abel, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California and licensed with the Board and Behavioral Sciences (BBS) – LMFT#80515.  I obtained my Bachelor of Science at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and moved to California to attend Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, CA, where I obtained my Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Promotion and Education and a Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy (MFT). I was born and raised in Washington, DC to Ethiopian born and raised parents.

I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. Though I have training and experience within my field as a therapist, I never assume to know more than my clients, especially concerning their life and what’s best for them. I view therapy as a way to assist clients in processing various emotions and thoughts and providing them with a unique perspective. This outlook is essential in challenging distorted thoughts and allows my clients to view the world with a new set of lenses. I utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness in my sessions.

I believe the most important aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. In order to develop this therapeutic rapport, I make every effort possible to create a very safe and supportive environment for my clients during sessions.

Trainings:

  • Certificate in Clinical Mediation from Loma Linda University

  • Certificate in Drug and Alcohol from Loma Linda University

  • Certificate in Divorce Mediation Training

  • TF-CBT Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

  • Seeking Safety: A treatment manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse

  • CORS (Crisis Oriented Recovery Services)

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy

Experiences:

I completed my MFT practicum at the County of San Bernardino’s Department of Behavioral Health, where I later obtained a full-time position after graduation in the Community Crisis Response Team (CCRT) department.  After moving to Los Angeles, CA, I worked at Kedren Community Health Center for almost 5 years, where I gained considerable experience and training.  I am experienced at providing mental health treatment to TAY youth (transitional age youth; ages 16 – 24), students, adults, couples, and families.

For over 3 years, I was a Clinical Supervisor at Airport Marina Counseling Service, where I supervised unlicensed clinicians.