About Charissa
Years in Practice: Years
School: The Seattle School
License No. and State:
LH60488004 Washington
20059 Florida
LPC-20680 Arizona
Experience
I have worked in the mental health field since 2008 in Washington across a diverse setting; including crisis intervention, individual counseling, group therapy, professional development and business consultation.
Education and Licensure
I hold a Master's Degree in Psychology from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology and am licensed in Washington, Arizona, and Florida. Working on PHD in Clinical Sexology 2025.
Founder of Karis Collective
I founded Karis Collective with the mission of creating a safe, inclusive space where individuals feel seen and heard through life's challenges. www.kariscollective.com
Belief
Every individual's story is important and unique.
Specialization
My focus is on trauma, with an emphasis on the body-mind connection, addressing issues such as:
- Medical trauma, Disordered Eating, Body Image, and Eating Disorders
- Sexual, Emotional, Physical abuse in Adult and Childhood.
- Betrayal Trauma and Grief.
Trainings and Certifications
- Certified Yoga Instructor incorporating body-awareness into therapy.
- Post Induction Therapy (Pia Mellody): Focused on codependency and addiction (The Meadows)
- Somatic Experiencing (Peter Levine): Trauma processing through body awareness
- Sex Addiction Therapy: CSAT-Candidate with IITAP (International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals)
- Traumatic Bonding: The Misaligned Fusion of the Souls: Dr Patrick Carnes IITAP
- Echo Parkinson Training: Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine
Therapeutic Goal
To help clients understand and navigate their unique trauma cycles shaped by family dynamics and personal histories.
Additional Passions
I have a love for culture and art. With an undergraduate degree in Art (Graphic Design) from Biola University and time spent living in Europe, I have a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, traditions, and travel.