Marissa is a compassionate and highly relational Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping individuals gain the insight, confidence, and tools needed to create a life that feels meaningful to them. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Quinnipiac University, her Master of Social Work from Fordham University, and completed her Doctorate of Social Work from Simmons University in August 2026.

Marissa believes that the therapeutic relationship itself can be a powerful catalyst for change. She creates a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to explore their experiences. She views clients as the experts on themselves, honoring each person’s unique lived experiences, strengths, and intersecting identities. Her approach is collaborative and focused on helping individuals recognize their own capabilities while making meaningful changes in the areas that matter most to them.

Marissa works with young adults through older adults who may be navigating anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, grief and loss, and questions surrounding identity and self-esteem. She has a particular interest in helping individuals understand and navigate difficult relational dynamics, strengthen healthy connections, and explore the impact of family-of-origin and intergenerational trauma. She also supports individuals experiencing both death-related and non-death-related losses, recognizing that grief can take many forms throughout the lifespan.

In her clinical work, Marissa draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), interpersonal and relational approaches, grief therapy, supportive therapy, solution-focused techniques, narrative approaches, and strengths-based and empowerment-focused interventions. She takes a systemic perspective, helping clients explore how relationships, family systems, and broader experiences may influence their current lives. Her approach is flexible and tailored to each individual, with an emphasis on developing insight, strengthening relationships, and building practical tools for meaningful change.

Marissa believes that every individual is the expert on themselves and that change is possible at any stage of life. She believes that individuals have the capacity to grow, adapt, and create meaningful change, even when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. Her goal is to empower clients to recognize their unique strengths and capabilities, develop greater self-understanding, and feel more confident navigating life’s inevitable twists and turns.

Outside of the therapy room, Marissa enjoys spending time with family and friends. She loves all things autumn and Halloween and is deeply committed to lifelong learning and continued personal and professional growth.