psychotherapy in fort walton beach
+ online across FLorida & new jersey
Therapy for thoughtfully rebellious, deep feeling humans---ready to renew confidence and restore authentic
self-expression.
Therapy for thoughtfully rebellious, deep feeling humans--ready to renew confidence and restore authentic self-expression.
a studio for your soul
You learned to read the room before you entered it--scanning for cues that it's safe to be yourself.
Now, you're lost in your thoughts--planning, perfecting, and performing...not because you want to, but because you excel at it.
You've tried therapy/coaching/classes but you notice the same cycles of self-criticism & control stuck on repeat.
Bullying yourself into obedience has become a tired dance. If only you could stop gaslighting your gut and speak your shh-tuff (the things you were taught to keep quiet about)---then you could integrate your shadow, instead of living in someone else's.
Somewhere along the way, your sensitivity became a survival skill, instead of a superpower.
Disconnected from yourself — You used to know who you were. Now you're not so sure. The things that once lit you up feel distant — and you can't pinpoint when you lost them.
Carrying grief no one sees — The loss is real, even if no one else acknowledges it. You're tired of hearing "you should be over this by now" — especially from yourself.
Trapped in your own head — You can see every angle of every situation, but you can't make a move. The fear of getting it wrong has become louder than the desire to move forward.
Lonely in a crowded places — You have people around you, but real connection feels impossible. You've been performing for so long you're not sure anyone actually knows you.
maybe you're...
If you're feeling "off track"...you're in the right place.
This is a space to reconnect with the parts of yourself you've been hiding — and actually enjoy the process.
from one Lifelong learner to another...
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It makes sense that even though you LOVE exploring new ideas, you don't want to be in therapy forever.
I'm Marisa--therapist, writer, & endless thinker behind Creative Process Counseling. The clients I work with are brilliant, badass, and never boring---they just have a little memory impairment. Our time together is centered around remembering what makes them unique, necessary, and impactful.
The wonderful humans I work with have excellent intellectual skills—so our collaboration is about leaning into creativity & spontaneity to breathe more life into everyday moments. Think less lying on the couch and more rolling up your sleeves.
Although many outgrow their sessions quickly, they find that hanging out in therapy for a while might not be such a bad thing.
what if creativity was more about being alive than being artistic?
The beauty of the creative process is that it helps us shift from thinking that we need to have everything figured out in order to make the next right move--to TRUSTING our ability to gather information and adapt accordingly. As a therapist for over 13 years, and a dedicated student of life, I have experienced this process as transformative, both personally and professionally. I often find myself in awe of its power to honestly reflect the intricacies of the human experience and permit space for profound change.
The creative process is especially helpful for those who grapple with trauma because it is an active way of recovering the imagination---our means to creating a cohesive story for our lives. When we experience trauma, our sense of self becomes fragmented--when we create, these parts of our self can start to ask "what happened to me?" vs. "what's wrong with me?" When we engage with the creative process, we can experience ourselves as fluid, emergent, and whole.
Marisa's approach redefines the art of healing. I treasure her bright, authentic presence. Her creative energy sparks something powerful in everyone she meets. To witness her dedication is truly inspiring. Marisa is a force for transformation and hope!
lauren soutullo, LMHC
Marisa embodies what I believe to be the essential "ingredient" of this work: authenticity. She brings heart and honesty to her practice, guided by her own commitment to wellness & connection. As a therapist, I would trust her with my loved ones.
Alexandra Smith, LCSW, LICSW
Marisa is deeply caring, calm, and compassionate. We worked from 2010-2012 facilitating group therapy programs together, she is an exceptional person & therapist. I wholeheartedly recommend her for anyone seeking a sage, stable, grounded, & holistic provider!
JeNnifer Hopkins, LCSW
I had the privilege of working with Marisa for a couple years and was always touched by her creative, curious, and kind spirit. She was conscious to make sure she was in true alignment with herself on every level which allowed for a steadiness and truly authentic experience. Her heightened attunement allows for her to hold grounded space where you will be able to explore safely what is ready to emerge whether it is tapping into painful experiences or more joy and vitality.
Jennifer Pearlman, LPCC
kind words from fellow clinicians
specialties
Social anxiety & self-esteem
You feel like an intruder everywhere you go and wonder whose life you are really living. Let's work together to help you take up space, without apologizing for it.
relational trauma
You're tired of constantly considering (or subconsciously concocting) your exit strategy. Let's investigate what's needed to create the kind of safety where you can settle in, say what you need, and enjoy genuine connection.
high functioning depression
You don't have to deplete yourself to be successful. There's another way — and it doesn't require burning out to prove your worth.
grief & life transitions
You wonder if you will always have to hide your pain to keep others comfortable. Learn to develop meaningful ways to mourn and empower yourself to grow a life around loss.
how it works...
1
Take the first step
Fill out the form below to schedule a free 15 minute consultation call. On this call, we can talk about what led you to seek therapy and get a feel for if we are a good fit. From there, we'll schedule your first appointment.
I work with adolescents and adults 16 years and older and offer in person sessions in Fort Walton Beach as well as anywhere online in Florida & New Jersey.
2
Invest in truly being seen & heard
Show up to therapy as is--all of your moods, tears, and awkward laughter are equally welcome here.
I'm here to meet the real you — so you can finally trust that person is worthy of love and belonging.
3
Evolve beyond
We'll explore what shaped you, clarify what matters, and find tools you actually enjoy. Then you get to do the fun part — live a life that's truly yours. One with magic, meaning, and purpose.
thank you!