As a former school based counselor Merika brings the following perspective and approach to her college counseling services: 

1. Counseling from a student-centered lens:

Merika has experience working with a diverse range of learners, with a wide range of GPAs and test scores. She assesses each student’s individual needs and goals in order to support them in finding the best fit schools, extracurricular activities, and enrichment opportunities. Merika values promoting colleges that suit each individual student, rather than molding students to specific colleges, to increase student success and well-being.

2. Experience in academic advising:

As a former school counselor, Merika brings extensive experience guiding students in selecting courses and academic opportunities that satisfy high school graduation requirements while supporting their college aspirations. She offers objective advice to help students and families navigate the wide range of course options available and works with them to create an academic plan that promotes growth and positions students for success in their postsecondary goals.

3. Experience with wrap-around services:

​The college planning process can be stressful and bring out a range of emotions. Sometimes tough topics come up along the way. Should a student disclose mental health struggles in an essay? They may confide that they have been feeling heightened anxiety or depression during the application process. Merika's background and training equips her to navigate these situations with compassion and share resources to support you.

4. She “speaks” high school:

As a former school-based counselor, Merika has lived and experienced the high school counselor side of the admissions process. She has supported hundreds of students in navigating communication with their teachers—whether seeking help with challenging concepts, discussing academic interests, or requesting letters of recommendation. Merika equips students with the skills to effectively express their needs while fostering strong, positive relationships with their teachers. She also values collaboration and is happy to partner with a student’s school counselor when appropriate.

An independent college counselor offers individualized guidance for students in grades 9–12, supporting them through academic planning, extracurricular growth, and every step of the college application journey. At Mindful Admissions, students receive assistance with building balanced college lists, preparing for campus visits, staying on top of deadlines, and crafting compelling application materials such as essays and activities lists. Services also include test preparation timeline strategies, interview preparation, scholarship guidance, and help with making final college choices. The goal is to simplify the process while empowering students—so they feel confident, organized, and excited about the next chapter of their lives.

The best time for families to begin working with a college counselor is at the end of 8th grade, as students prepare to choose their 9th grade courses. At Mindful Admissions, the focus is on holistic counseling—providing ongoing guidance and support throughout the entire high school experience, not just during application season. By starting early, Merika is able to build strong connections with students, help them discover their interests, and encourage their personal growth. That said, whether a student begins in 9th grade or later, Mindful Admissions provides meaningful support at every stage of the process.

Merika lives and works in Redondo Beach, California.  Depending on your location meetings can be held in person or virtually, often times it will be a mix of both depending on the meeting topic. (ie initials meetings are often best in person while essay editing sessions are best done virtually with a shared screen).

No Mindful Admissions does not currently offer test prep services for the SAT or ACT. Merika can help with creating a test prep timeline and strategy for students as well as provide referrals for reputable test prep companies. 

Merika is a member of multiple college admissions counseling organizations including:

NACAC (National Association of College Admissions Counseling)

WACAC (Western Association of College Admissions Counseling)

IECA (Independent Educational Consultants Association)

Merika attends a variety of admissions conferences each year to keep up to date on all things college admissions.  

She regularly visits colleges (virtually and in person) to gain a deeper understanding of campus culture and provide students with insight to help them find their best fit.

The cost of working with a college counselor can vary significantly depending on the counselor’s credentials, location, and services offered.

The average cost of working with a college counselor can range from $150-$400+ per hour. 

Mindful Admissions rates are competitive at $200 per hour.  Families that decide to purchase a package deal will receive a 10% discount off the hourly rate.