A Bit About Marisa

History

I was born and raised in Metro-Detroit and after a few amazing years in Colorado, I’m back in the mitten! I received my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work with a minor in Education from Michigan State University (go green!) and my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan. At the University of Michigan I specialized in clinical social work with a concentration in interpersonal practice with children and youth in families and society. After graduate school, I spent a year working in Wilderness Therapy where I lived in the backcountry with at-risk youth and young adults experiencing a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, dysregulation & mood changes. I have since worked as a school social worker with kids in Kindergarten through 12thgrade. In this setting, I have worked with students with a variety of disabilities – Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, cognitive impairments, emotional impairments – ie: anxiety & depression, learning difficulties, and social challenges. I utilize a variety of psychodynamic modalities, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Adventure Therapy, and other mindfulness based approaches.

I love working with children, adolescents, and families. As a social worker, I get to work with clients through challenges, watch them grow, and empower them to succeed. I have the privilege to see clients at their best and at their worst. It is in those moments that I see my clients resiliency and strength. I look forward to hearing your story and embarking on this challenging journey together. 

What a session with marisa looks likE

I promise to treat all of my client’s with empathy, compassion and understanding. When you step into my office, you are stepping into a safe and non-judgmental space. It is my hope that you feel that comfort and unconditional positive regard throughout each and every session. Whenever I meet with clients I meet them where they are emotionally and mentally. If you’re ready to dive into the deep end at the very beginning, then that’s what we’ll do. If you need to dip your toes in first, that’s ok too. I am here to hear your story and help you along your journey, as quickly or slowly as you feel comfortable. I know that each of my clients are unique and that every journey looks different. I will work with you to create an individualized plan that meets your needs.

Change does not happen overnight. It takes time and work. In order for this work to be successful, you must be willing to put in the work too. You are not alone. I promise to be a listening ear. I will partner with you, be a sounding board, and push you to sit with your discomfort. I will challenge you and encourage you. Some sessions will be harder than others, but it is in those difficult moments that growth and clarity can occur.  

The Nitty Gritty

Degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Social Work, Minor Education – Michigan State University // Master of Social Work (MSW) – University of Michigan

License Info:  MI: Licensed Master Social Worker 6801107562 

NPI Number: 1609314053

Affiliations: Signs of Suicide Certifcate of Completion //  Youth Mental Health First Aid Certfication

Please note:

Every human being was created to be a unique, worthy individual. Not every human being is dealing with the same medical conditions, life stressors, genetics, injustices, etc. It is vital that we remember this. I ask that when you read the contents of my site, you too remember this and remember that your needs may be different than that of your relative, neighbor, partner, or friend. While one person may need to add more stimulation to their life, another person may need to take activities away. While one person may need to be more social, someone else may need more time to themselves. Comparison is the theif of joy! We are all in different places with very different stories. These stories make us who we are and who you are is what we hope to help you honor.