About Gia Merlo, MD, MBA, MEd
Providing Compassionate Care for Mental Health
With a strong educational background and extensive experience in the field of psychiatry, Dr. Merlo is dedicated to providing compassionate care for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Dr. Merlo understands that mental health concerns can have a profound impact on every aspect of a person's life, and she is committed to helping her patients overcome these challenges. Through a combination of evidence-based treatments and personalized care, Dr. Merlo strives to exceed her patients' expectations and support them on their journey to improved mental well-being.
Read about her journey and her work in mental health and wellness and follow her on social media at the links below.








With over three decades of experience, her journey has been defined not just by medical expertise, but by an unwavering commitment to the well-being of her patients and the community at large.
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What sets Dr. Merlo apart is her profound empathy and genuine concern for those she serves. Beyond the confines of a clinical setting, she sees each individual as a person with a unique story, struggles, and aspirations. It's this deep sense of compassion that drives her to go the extra mile, to listen attentively, and to provide not just treatment, but solace and support.
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In a world where mental health issues are often stigmatized or overlooked, Dr. Merlo stands as a steadfast advocate, breaking down barriers and championing for greater awareness and understanding. Her tireless efforts extend beyond the confines of her practice, as she actively engages in education, advocacy, and community outreach to promote mental health literacy and access to care.











Dr. Gia Merlo is an expert in mental health, brain health, lifestyle psychiatry, and behavioral health. She currently practices adult psychiatry at NYU Langone Health and holds positions as a clinical professor of psychiatry at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine and clinical professor of nursing at NYU's Rory Meyers College of Nursing. Dr. Merlo was elected a fellow of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.
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Dr. Merlo earned her medical degree in India. She continued her graduate medical education at UT Southwestern in Dallas, TX. She also holds a Master of Business Administration from Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, and a Master of Education in the Health Professions from Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Merlo is board-certified in Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Lifestyle Medicine.
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Throughout her career, Dr. Merlo has made significant contributions to medical education and research. She has held teaching positions at Baylor College of Medicine, Rice University, and the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Dr. Merlo has authored and edited several books, including Principles of Medical Professionalism and Lifestyle Nursing, both of which emphasize the importance of preventive care and wellness promotion.
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In addition to her academic endeavors, Dr. Merlo is actively involved in professional organizations and community initiatives. She serves as the founding chair of the Lifestyle Psychiatry Caucus of the American Psychiatric Association and former chair of the Mental and Behavioral Health MIG within the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Dr. Merlo has served on various nonprofit boards, including the Plant-Powered Metro of New York (PPMNY).
Driven by her passion for improving mental health outcomes, Dr. Merlo has dedicated over 30 years to providing compassionate care to individuals and families affected by mental disorders. Her comprehensive approach to psychiatry integrates evidence-based practices with lifestyle interventions to promote overall well-being and resilience.




