Krista Merca, LMFT
She/ Her
“One of the most vital ways we sustain ourselves is by building communities of resistance, places where we know we are not alone.” -bell hooks
My approach to therapy is intersectional, affirmative, collaborative, and strengths-based. My work inside and outside of the therapeutic space is rooted in anti-oppression. I have seen and experienced firsthand how systematic racism and White supremacy are present. My experience working alongside Black, Indigenous, and communities of color has given me a valuable perspective on how different forms of trauma affect individuals, relationships, families, and communities. I look forward to having the opportunity to help all of my clients heal on their way to liberation.
About:
I am Filipinx/Chinese American, queer, and femme. As a third-generation Asian American, I resonate with folx who have questioned their racial identities throughout their lifetime. I have spent many long days and nights negotiating with my identity and self-worth. I have struggled within my relationships and society with not fitting into the molds of what I “should” be. My journey of unlearning the impact of collective generational trauma due to colonization will always be an ongoing journey.
Education Background:
I obtained my Master’s Degree in Couple and Family Therapy with a concentration in Sex Therapy at Antioch University Seattle. I currently hold professional memberships through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), and the Washington Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (WAMFT.)
Professional Engagement:
Merca, K. (2022, October 19). Working with LGBTQ+ Clients in Sex Therapy. [Lecture.] Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA.
Ginn, Q., & Merca, K. (2022, September 24). Reclaiming our Sexual Selves: Helping our Clients Thrive in their Sexuality. [Breakout Session.] Washington Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Tacoma, WA.
Ginn, Q., & Merca, K. (2021, September 24-25). Interracial couples counseling: Effectively adapting therapeutic interventions. [Breakout Session.] Washington Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Seattle, WA.
Merca, K. (2021, May 6-8). Anti-racism in relational therapy. [Breakout Session.] Antioch University Seattle Social Justice Symposium, Seattle, WA.
Merca, K., (2019, September 27-28). An examination of diversity in sex therapy clients: Comparing a sex therapy agency to mental health agencies in Seattle, WA. [Poster Session.] Washington Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Seattle, WA.