
Marissa’s academic and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to psychology and counseling. While earning her BA in Psychology at the University of Illinois in Chicago, she studied abroad in Ecuador and India, deepening her understanding of culture, perspective, and intentionality. Her dedication led her to complete a Master’s in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in adolescent treatment at Northwestern University in Evanston. Throughout her career in the Chicagoland area, Marissa has provided counseling to individuals of all ages, from children to adults, addressing a wide range of conditions and disorders. She feels privileged to walk alongside her clients, offering a safe space to process challenges and providing insights to guide their next steps.
Marissa currently focuses on delivering mental health education to diverse groups. Her weekly class series serve middle school through high school students and adult clients facing various challenges. She firmly believes in the transformative power of psychoeducation, recognizing that equipping individuals with valuable insights empowers them to navigate life more effectively. As the lead creator of Simplifying Therapy’s toolkits, Marissa designs practical resources to support mental health and well-being. Her commitment to education and resource development underscores her mission to help others live healthier, more fulfilling lives. In her free time, Marissa enjoys spending time with family, engaging in her community to continue her father’s legacy, reading, and connecting with nature. She attributes much of her personal healing to time spent among redwood trees and forests, which she has organically integrated into her therapeutic practices. Marissa wholeheartedly supports the mantra, “Hike more, worry less.”