Meet Marisa

Hi, I'm Marisa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) who is passionate about helping people create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. I believe therapy should be collaborative, practical, and tailored to each individual, meeting you where you are while empowering you to move toward where you want to be.

My therapeutic approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Narrative Therapy. I enjoy helping clients develop effective coping skills, process difficult experiences, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and build lives that feel balanced, fulfilling, and aligned with their values.

Professionally, I began my career working in addiction treatment at the New York-Presbyterian methadone program, where I gained valuable experience supporting individuals navigating substance use and recovery. Today, I work with individuals facing addiction, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression, life transitions, trauma, and many of the everyday obstacles that can make life feel overwhelming.

I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves. I believe therapy isn't just about overcoming challenges—it's also about recognizing strengths, celebrating progress, and learning practical tools that can be used long after each session ends.

When I'm not working with clients, you'll probably find me spending time with friends and family, playing with my cat, Roger, traveling to new places, watching The Great British Bake Off and other cozy British baking shows, going for a run, or enjoying a good iced coffee. I believe that finding joy in the little things is an important part of maintaining balance, and I encourage my clients to discover what brings them that same sense of fulfillment.

Whether you're new to therapy or returning for additional support, I'd be honored to be part of your journey toward healing, growth, and thriving.

  • "Marisa has a rare gift for creating a safe space that empowers clients to heal. She brings deep empathy and sharp clinical skills to her work. It’s been a true pleasure to both work with and supervise her."

    Eileen Kovach - LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist

  • "Marisa is a wonderfully empathetic clinician who is adept at creating safe, comfortable spaces for her clients. She is always eager to learn, grow, and work as an active support and team member. It was a pleasure to supervise her and see her flourish."

    Rog Magyar - LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist

  • "Marisa is a kind, empathetic, and deeply thoughtful therapist. She brings warmth, attunement, and a wide range of clinical experience to her work. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking a compassionate, skilled, and supportive therapist."

    Jenny Barshay - LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Talking Works

  • "Marisa is an outstanding LMSW who creates a safe, supportive space for healing. Her ability to connect with clients, offer insightful guidance, and tailor her approach to individual needs. She is there for anyone seeking kind and compassionate care."

    Rowan O’Leary - LMSW, City Mental Health Counseling

  • "As a clinician, Marisa brings an incredible sense of warmth, optimism, and insight through various therapeutic modalities. She is highly skilled, trauma-informed, and comes recommended to anyone seeking support!"

    Andrea Angove-Volb - LMSW, Talking Works