Get To Know Me

My name is Marissa and welcome to my practice. First, I wanted to share a little bit about myself. I started my career as a middle school counselor for over a decade after graduating from Rutgers University.  After obtaining for license as an LPC, I started treating adults in the evenings. I have now fully transitioned to private practice since the birth of my son in January 2024. I enjoy my iced coffee now more than ever and appreciate the few moments I have here and there to binge watch a show while indulging in my fave chocolate chip cookies.  Its my form of self care:)

A reason that I went into this field is that  I have found too often times we are struggling alone, holding our breathe and just trying to survive each day. As your therapist,  I want to help bring hope and life back into your day to day. My overall goal for my clients is to help you feel resilient enough to get through the hard times, empowered enough to trust your journey amd decisions,  and ultimately where you get to a place where you feel better.  If that seems far reaching,  I am here to listen and support you to get to that place.

I have a passion for helping those navigate life transitions (whether that be the ending of a relationship, starting college or a new career,  retirement, becoming a new parent to name a few) or not sure what that next step is that can bring to the surface a variety of emotions that may include fear, doubts, excitement, stress, guilt and everything in between.  I want to help you through all of that. Knowing when to take that first step and when is the right time for counseling is different for everyone; only you know when
you are ready.

I understand the idea talking to a complete stranger may seem uncomfortable at first, and that is a natural feeling you may have.  I believe through open and honest communications this will help build trust between us so that you can accomplish your goal in a safe and comfortable environment; celebrating your successes and working together to overcome challenges.

The reasons people think about going to counseling are different for everyone, I am mindful of where each client is on their journey. Through our first few sessions we will get to know each other as therapist and client and continue to determine if it is an appropriate therapeutic fit.  I typically suggest weekly sessions  for the first 3-4 times we meet (if that works for you too) to help  build a rapport and get into a bit of a rhythm; then we can discuss what is appropriate for you and your needs in terms of follow up sessions.

In our time together, I will assess what is needed from me as your therapist. I believe in a client-centered approach  to foster open discussions focusing on you. We will identify your strengths and highlight those to help create achievable goals and coping skills.  A shared goal that I have for my clients is that these will not only help you in the present, but ones you can access in the future as well. to cope with any stressors that may arise.