What would it feel like to flourish?
Meet Carisa
My Story
I love to learn and grow. That has been, and continues to be, a consistent part of my life's path. I've been lucky enough to work in a variety of industries and settings, live in a number of places, and explore different interests on my journey through life.
Helping others learn how to be more present in their lives and with themselves has become a passion.
In 1994 I earned a bachelor degree in chemistry with a minor in Spanish and worked in corporate America for both large and small companies. In 2004, I volunteered a significant amount of time working with elders and the dying, which broadened my perspectives on both life and death hugely. In 2013, I earned my doctorate degree in clinical psychology and worked in community health.
In 2016, I became independently licensed and opened my own psychology practice.
In 2024 I entered menopause. With this as a catalyst, I prioritized healthy aging and overall quality of life. I deactivated my psychology license and now work as a guide and facilitator, rather than as a psychologist. This means
I now offer a non-pathologizing approach to self-understanding and transition.
My Professional Services
I offer 1:1 sessions, either online or via phone. We can do general self exploration or focus on a particular situation or behavior. My sessions are typically 60 minutes, although other time frames can be scheduled if requested and as my schedule allows.
Additionally, I provide consultation for anyone helping other humans, whether mental health professionals, coaches or other consultants.
My passion projects include dissociation and regression, justice informed care, sociopathy, identity development, and life transitions of all kinds.
My Philosophy
My years of experience have taught me to normalize rather than pathologize human behavior, especially during significant life transitions. There are always reasons why we do the things we do. The problem is that we often misinterpret the messages our body is trying to tell us. The goal is to understand, rather than judge.
I'm not here to fix or label; my role is to be present and help things make sense. Experiences become traumatic when they don't make sense. Conventional mental health care often focuses so much on symptoms that they ignore context. I help people understand what their psyches are trying to tell them, without a diagnosis or medication. My goal is to help you understand yourself better. Curiosity leads to understanding, and understanding leads to compassion. Learning to develop self-care and self-compassion makes EVERYTHING easier. You can be the source of your own healing. I serve as a guide to help get you there.