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- Internal Family Systems
- Trauma-Focused CBT
- Stress and anxiety
About Marissa
Marissa Alvarez, LMSW, practices in Michigan and has five years of clinical experience. They help people with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, LGBT-related concerns, intimacy-related issues, and ADHD. Marissa describes using Internal Family Systems and Trauma-Focused CBT alongside intersectional feminist and anti-racist frameworks to guide sessions.
Marissa works with adults and centers conversations on how past experiences show up in daily life. Sessions focus on building coping skills and reducing distressing symptoms. They aim to make complex material understandable and manageable.
The approach draws on parts work from Internal Family Systems to identify different internal roles and patterns. Trauma-Focused CBT is used to address trauma-related symptoms and practical skill building. These methods are paired with attention to gender, sexual identity, and disability when relevant.
Marissa lists additional focus areas including attachment issues, autism and Asperger syndrome, BDSM and kink, body image, chronic illness and pain, codependency, communication problems, eating and food-related issues, family of origin concerns, fertility issues, forgiveness, gender dysphoria, and guilt and shame. This range shapes session topics and goals.
Sessions are described as collaborative and goal-oriented. Marissa asks clients to identify what they want to work on and then offers strategies and exercises to try between meetings. Progress is reviewed and approaches adjusted over time.
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Therapeutic approaches used and how they translate online
Internal Family Systems is a parts-based approach that helps people identify internal roles and patterns. It involves dialoguing with those parts and developing more balanced internal leadership, which can help with anxiety, identity concerns, and self-criticism.Trauma-Focused CBT combines trauma processing with practical skills like emotion regulation and grounding. It aims to reduce trauma-related symptoms and teach strategies people can use between sessions.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with the client to decide which methods fit their goals, needs, and preferences. Plans are reviewed and adjusted as progress is made.
The original biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm current options before booking. Many clients appreciate online work because it can fit into a busy day, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. Licensed professionals can use these methods effectively through conversation, guided exercises, and between-session assignments to support ongoing skill building.
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Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
5+ years
Listed in
Michigan
Languages
English
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Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Marissa treat?
They work with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, LGBT-related concerns, intimacy-related issues, and ADHD. Additional focuses include attachment, body image, chronic illness, and related topics.
How does Marissa approach therapy?
They use Internal Family Systems and Trauma-Focused CBT as core methods and bring intersectional feminist and anti-racist lenses to sessions. Therapy emphasizes skills practice and understanding how past experiences affect daily life.
How much experience do they have?
Marissa has five years of clinical experience. That experience shapes their use of parts work and trauma-focused techniques.
Where is Marissa licensed and based?
They hold a Michigan LMSW and practice in Michigan. Licensing details are listed as MI LMSW.
What languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English. International clients are not currently accepted.
Which session formats are available?
The original biography does not specify session formats. Confirm current session options with the therapist before booking.
How is cost handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Exact pricing depends on the selected plan and location.
How do I begin working with Marissa?
Start by selecting the See online therapy options button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and scheduling a first session. That process sets up the initial appointment.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, call 911, or call or text 988.