Carissa is a dedicated therapist at The Community Lighthouse, where she integrates a person-centered and multicultural approach to help her clients overcome adversity and reconnect with their best selves. As a Navajo (Diné) therapist, she places a strong emphasis on understanding and respecting the unique aspects of each individual's identity, particularly navigating the complexities of life experiences, trauma, and intergenerational trauma.

 

Born and raised in the Albuquerque area, Carissa pursued her education locally, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of New Mexico and a Master of Science in Clinical/Counseling Psychology at New Mexico Highlands University. Her educational background equips her to blend empirically-based interventions with a deep respect for her clients' strengths, fostering a holistic treatment approach.

 

With several years of experience in mental health settings working with families, children, and adults, Carissa is deeply committed to her role and continuously strives to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for her clients to share their stories. Her personal interests, including learning Navajo and Spanish, hiking, and beadwork, enrich her therapeutic practice, adding depth to her understanding and empathy.

 

At The Community Lighthouse, Carissa embodies our values of guiding children toward healing and wellness, building healthy relationships, and investing in growth. Her approach is a testament to our mission of empowering families, children, and professionals to heal trauma for generations to come, and she plays a key role in helping our community move toward healing one individual at a time.