Carissa was born, raised, and currently resides in Monroe Township, New Jersey. She attended Stockton University to obtain her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology, double minoring in Childhood Studies and Disability Studies. She then remained at Stockton University to receive her Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy.

Carissa is a New Jersey Board Certified Occupational Therapist, who also has obtained her Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification and CPR certification. Carissa has experience working with a variety of age groups and diagnoses, including, pediatric and adults with diagnoses of intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, orthopedic conditions, and neurological conditions. She previously worked as a Registered Behavior Technician for the past 4 years, with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as developmental and intellectual disabilities. She believes in providing client-centered care to support patients in reaching their goals in living an independent and pain free life.

In her spare time, she is an active member of a local yoga studio and local gym. She enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and friends, specifically, hiking, kayaking, and biking.