LCSW-C, 5 years of experience
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) based in Maryland. I received my Masters degree from Salisbury University. I bring a wealth of experience working with adolescents from varied settings such as schools, outpatient, and inpatient care—where I've assisted clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I enjoy helping young adults and adults navigate change, life transitions, anxiety, and relationship issues.
The first session is a space for you to share more about yourself, your background, and the challenges or concerns you're hoping to address. It’s a time for us to connect, and for me to understand how I can best support you on your journey toward healing and growth. In this session, you’ll have the opportunity to share what brought you to therapy, the main struggles you’re facing, and any important events or circumstances in your life that may have shaped who you are today. We’ll discuss what you hope to achieve in therapy and explore your goals. This could be anything from managing anxiety to improving relationships, to gaining better self-awareness or self-esteem. I may ask some questions to better understand your emotional and mental health, as well as any patterns in your behavior or thoughts that may be contributing to your challenges. I’ll also make sure to clarify confidentiality—what’s shared in our sessions is private and protected by law, which is important for building trust in our work together.
My approach to therapy is rooted in authenticity, warmth, and empowerment. I believe therapy is a partnership, where we work together to help you navigate your struggles and reach your personal goals. I aim to create a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. Together, we’ll focus on building healthy coping skills, fostering personal growth, and cultivating self-compassion. Ultimately, my goal is to help you better understand yourself and gain the tools you need to create lasting, positive change in your life.
6 ratings with written reviews
July 8, 2025
I've been on and off therapy for about 5 years now. Searching and finding the right fit for me. And, for the first time in awhile, I feel at home. Marisa made things feel easier to communicate. It didn't feel like I was in a office chair. She was patient and kind as ever. We need more people like her.
June 30, 2025
I came across Marisa on a whim and I'm so glad I did. She has been very warm and open-minded. I appreciate the variety of questions she asks and the analogies she has to offer. Her advice is authentic, refreshing and validating. I feel very accepted and comfortable during our sessions. Turly appreciare the experience so far. I'm relatively new to therapy and thanks to her it has been a great start to my foundation. Would recommend :)
April 29, 2025
Marisa is patient, listens, provides excellent feedback, and helps with recentering on what is important before heading back out into the world. Our sessions are my touchpoint for grounding and staying focused on what matters, instead of what is intimidating. 10/10 recommend.
A strength based approach focuses on the strengths and self determination of each person. I believe you have strengths, are resourceful, and resilient. My goal is to help you believe in yourself again by pointing out your strengths and helping you notice the change you can make that is within your control.
CBT focuses on thought patterns. CBT can be used in discussion and with activities. We focus on identifying negative thought patterns and reframing thoughts.
DBT teaches mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. I incorporate DBT through discussion, activities, and teaching mindfulness techniques.
This uses mindfulness techniques to improve mental well being. Mindfulness focuses on the present moment, acceptance, compassion and non reactivity. If client are interested, I educate on mindfulness techniques, model them, and practice them together in session.
I use the principles of Trauma Informed Care in every session. Which is to provide safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration and empowerment.