We were made for more than survival - We were made to thrive.
Therapy and lactation consultation in-person in Gilbert, AZ, and virtually throughout AZ
MEET THE FOUNDER
Hi, I’m Karissa!
I'm the founder of Made to Thrive Wellness, and I'm passionate about helping mothers thrive. Through counseling and lactation support, I help mothers navigate motherhood’s challenges, feel grounded in their faith, and build a connected, nurturing relationship with their babies.
My work brings together therapy, an understanding of the mind-body connection, and practical lactation support. Whether you're working through anxiety or past experiences, adjusting to motherhood, or navigating breastfeeding and infant feeding challenges, my goal is to help you find greater confidence, understanding, and practical solutions, no matter what stage of motherhood you are in.
As a Christian, my faith shapes how I understand people, relationships, and the value of caring for the whole person. I believe mothers should have support that honors their experiences, their relationship with their baby, and the role faith plays in their lives. My hope is to help you move beyond simply getting through motherhood and toward experiencing it with greater confidence, connection, joy, and as the gift it was made to be.
Credentials, Experience & Education
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona
Arizona-approved Clinical Supervisor
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist
Certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C)
EMDR-trained, with clinical experience since 2016
Master of Arts in Counseling, Phoenix Seminary
Lactation Education Program through Arizona State University
Currently pursuing a PhD in Counseling Supervision and Education at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary
A Little More About Me
Outside of work, I'm a mom of three, I love Jesus, and I'm a lifelong learner. I enjoy reading several books at once and drinking hot tea—even when it's over 100 degrees in Arizona!
My own breastfeeding journey included both emotional struggles and precious moments of connection that I'll carry with me for a lifetime. Experiencing both the challenges and the deep bond breastfeeding can bring inspired me to expand my practice to include lactation support as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
I want mothers to feel supported in all aspects of motherhood, whether they need emotional support, help processing trauma, practical guidance with breastfeeding and infant feeding, or encouragement as they nurture their relationships with their babies and children. My heart is for mothers to thrive and find joy in motherhood, not simply survive it.