McKinley Carr-Merrill, Marriage & Family Therapist
About

McKinley Carr-Merrill

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

You’re not weak for needing help—you’re brave for seeking it. I’m passionate about helping couples and families strengthen their relationships, deepen their connections, and navigate life’s challenges with greater understanding and compassion. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where both laughter and vulnerability are welcome parts of the journey. My clients often describe me as warm, compassionate, and a little bit spunky. I strive to create an environment where therapy feels both meaningful and engaging—where you can feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.

I practice at Ascend Counseling and Wellness in St. George and am currently completing my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Utah Tech University. My background includes years of experience in education and suicide prevention training, which has given me a strong foundation in creating safe, thoughtful spaces and infusing hope into meaningful conversations. I strive to be an ally for all and firmly believe that peace is attainable, even in the midst of life’s toughest questions.

Outside of therapy, my husband and I both teach high school here in St. George. We share a love for pottery, biking, rock climbing, thrifting, family vacations, and collecting children’s books. These passions keep us grounded and bring creativity and connection into our daily lives.

I’m currently accepting new clients—individuals, couples, and families. No matter where your journey leads, you deserve support along the way. If we’re a good fit, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Skills and Expertise

  • Relationship Issues
  • Life Transitions
  • Spirituality
  • ADHD
  • Anxiety
  • Body Positivity
  • Cancer
  • Child
  • Chronic Illness
  • Chronic Pain
  • Coping Skills
  • Depression
  • Divorce
  • Domestic Abuse
  • Grief
  • Hoarding
  • LGBTQ+
  • Life Coaching
  • Parenting
  • Peer Relationships
  • School Issues
  • Self Esteem
  • Self-Harming
  • Women’s Issues

Treatment Approach

  • Attachment-based
  • Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors
  • Compassion Focused
  • Culturally Sensitive
  • Emotionally Focused
  • Experiential Therapy
  • Family Systems
  • Feminist
  • Humanistic
  • Positive Psychology
  • Relational
  • Strength-Based
Location

St. George, Office Headquarters

Finances

Cost Per Session

$125

Most insurances

Qualifications

Years in Practice: Since 2025

Postgraduate: Utah Tech University, Masters of Marriage and Family Therapy, Graduated 2025

Modality

Individuals
Couples
Family

Client Focus

Spoken Languages:

English

Focal Age Group:

Children (6 to 10), PreteenTeenAdultsElders (65+)