Hi, I’m Dr. Marissa. From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue medicine. I vividly remember telling anyone who would listen that I wanted to deliver babies one day. Science, the human body, and caring for others have always deeply inspired me.

For many years, traditional medicine was my clear path. That direction shifted during a medical internship in Vietnam, when my roommate introduced me to the book Brain Maker by David Perlmutter. I had no idea that a single book could completely change the trajectory of my career. It opened my eyes to a new way of thinking about health that centered on the connection between the gut and the brain, and the role of diet and lifestyle in preventing chronic and neurodegenerative conditions. These were concepts I had never been exposed to before, and they resonated deeply.

After reading that book, I realized I could never practice medicine in the way I had originally planned. I began searching for an approach to health that aligned with my values. I wanted a model that prioritized prevention, sought to understand the why behind symptoms and conditions, and trusted the body’s innate ability to heal when given the right support. That search led me to naturopathic medicine, a field I had never encountered before but one that immediately felt aligned with everything I believed in.

I graduated from naturopathic medical school with a deep passion for wellness and a strong desire to support others in feeling informed, empowered, and cared for. I believe every person deserves to feel supported in their wellness journey. While traditional healthcare plays an important role, it often leaves gaps, particularly when it comes to understanding habits, lifestyle patterns, and early risk factors. My work exists in that space.

As a wellness consultant, my goal is to be your advocate and partner. I strive to educate, support, and walk alongside you through every stage of your wellness journey. I am here to help you feel confident, informed, and empowered to take an active role in your health, no matter where you are starting from.

Education:

B.S. in Neuroscience, University of Illinois at Chicago

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, National University of Health Sciences