Duarlin Mercado, MA, EdS, LPCC
Staff Therapist
Approach to Care
My philosophy is to treat each person as more than just a set of symptoms. Living with OCD, anxiety, depression, or the stress of school and daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming, leaving people stuck in cycles of avoidance, guilt, and fatigue. I meet clients with warmth, compassion, and structure, helping them see that change is possible even when it feels out of reach. I gently help clients notice the patterns that keep them stuck, while teaching practical skills to break free. Known for being both empathetic and direct, I balance support with accountability, guiding clients to confront fears, build tolerance for discomfort, and take meaningful steps forward. My goal is to help children, teens, and adults reconnect with what matters most and live with more confidence, flexibility, and freedom.
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At Willow, I am known for my ability to connect with youth and families who feel misunderstood or overlooked. My background in education and school psychology gives me unique insight into the pressures students face from academic demands and social struggles to the challenges of ADHD, autism, and learning differences. Parents often find comfort in my ability to bridge the gap between clinical care and the realities of school and home life.
​​Methods of Treatment
I specialize in OCD and anxiety, and my approach is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), the most effective and well-researched treatment for anxiety and mood disorders. I use exposure and response prevention (ERP) to target OCD directly, while also integrating acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills to strengthen resilience and emotional regulation.
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Therapy with me is collaborative, structured, and hands-on. Clients set clear goals and actively practice new skills both inside and outside of sessions. I am especially skilled at working with children and teens, blending creativity, playfulness, and structure to make treatment approachable. Parents also receive coaching so they can support their child’s progress at home.
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Cultural Sensitivity
As a Mexican-American and first-generation professional, I understand how culture and family dynamics deeply shape mental health. I am bilingual in English and Spanish and provide therapy that is culturally sensitive, respectful, and inclusive.
I have a keen awareness of how cultural values, such as family expectations, independence, and achievement can fuel anxiety and stress. By incorporating these dynamics into therapy, I ensure that treatment feels both evidence-based and personally meaningful for clients and families from diverse backgrounds.
Education and Experience
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I earned both a Master’s degree in School Psychology and an Education Specialist (EdS) degree from Sacramento State. I began my career in schools, supporting children and teens with ADHD, autism, learning differences, and anxiety. My work included parent coaching, psychoeducation, and collaboration with teachers to ensure students were supported across settings.
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Now, as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) at Willow Anxiety and OCD, I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, and mood disorders across all age groups. With over four years of clinical experience, I am recognized for my ability to combine evidence-based treatments with cultural sensitivity, creativity, and genuine care for my clients’ growth.
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Outside of my professional life, I am passionate about living fully and finding balance. I enjoy fitness and soccer, staying active through lifting and movement. I am an avid cook who loves experimenting with new recipes and pairing them with the perfect cup of coffee from pour-over methods to exploring new beans. Music is also central to my life; I find joy in concerts, discovering new artists, and sharing playlists. When I need to recharge, I turn to nature—hiking, traveling, or simply spending quiet time outdoors. These personal passions not only keep me grounded but also shape the creativity, balance, and curiosity I bring into therapy.