Athens Behavioral
Medicine

Zack Merena, PA-C grew up outside of Baltimore, MD. He attended Eastern University where he played basketball and lacrosse and earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He joined the Army as a medic and then entered their Physician Assistant program, earning a second bachelor’s degree and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies in 2018.

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Zack developed a strong interest in behavioral health while serving as a Physician Assistant in the US Army. Throughout his military career, he cared for service members facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and the unique stresses associated with military life. These experiences reinforced his belief that mental health is just as important as physical health and inspired him to pursue additional training in the field through an internship at the Department of Defense’s largest behavioral health facility at Fort Hood, Texas, where he gained valuable experience working alongside behavioral health specialists in the care of active-duty soldiers.

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After 10 years of Active-Duty military service, Zack wanted stability for his family and settled in Watkinsville and joined the ABM team in 2026.

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Zack is married and has 3 kids. His free time is spent attending Graystone Church, going to his daughter’s theater performances or shuttling his 2 boys to travel lacrosse practices and games.​