ABOUT ME

Carissa is a Speech-Language Pathologist and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, specializing in infant and toddler feeding therapy. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics from Seattle Pacific University in 2012, a Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders from Utah State University in 2015, and a Masters of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 2018. She is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA),  holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), and has been honored to receive two ASHA ACE awards for her dedication to continuing education, with hundreds of hours devoted to infant feeding alone. She is also a member of the International Consortium of Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP) and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. Areas of special interest include developmental feeding and tongue ties in infancy and toddlerhood.​​

 

Carissa has experience working with a variety of populations and settings, always with an emphasis on swallowing disorders. Her background in nutrition is what sparked her passion for feeding and swallowing, while becoming a mother further nurtured that interest in the pediatric population. While the majority of her post-master’s education has emphasized infant feeding, Carissa also pursues continuing education in areas of lactation medicine, infant bodywork, sensory and reflex integration, as well as motor milestones in order to provide comprehensive care that supports breastfeeding goals and has a lasting impact on infant development. Having a deep appreciation for how the whole body is connected, she is enthusiastic about providing holistic infant development and feeding support in the Kitsap community. ​

 

Nourish Therapy was born out of a passion for helping families navigate oral dysfunction and tethered oral tissues. Not only is Carissa a feeding specialist, but a parent of a NICU-graduate, two tongue tied babies, and a child with a pediatric feeding disorder. She is passionate about educating on the connection between oral development, speech, feeding, breathing, and overall wellbeing of our children, and finds so much joy in working with families to see their babies thrive. She is excited to bring services to Kitsap County.​​

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In her free time, Carissa loves exploring the outdoors with her family, working on DIY projects around the house, and cooking and crafting with her girls.