Marisa Schaff, LICSW
LICSW specializing in trauma and addiction
- Trauma and abuse
- Addiction and recovery
- Relationship and family
About Marisa Schaff
Marisa Schaff is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and a Substance Use Disorder Professional practicing in Washington. She began her behavioral health career in 2010 as a substance abuse counselor working with adolescents, and early clinical experiences revealed how substance use and mental health concerns often overlap.
She earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver with a concentration in Family Systems and completed an Animal-Assisted Social Work certificate. While at the University of Denver she also took three psychology courses focused on military culture and treatment. During her second year of graduate study she entered a two-year post-graduate training program at the Denver Family Institute focused on marriage and family therapy, graduating from that program in February 2019.
Marisa has held roles across diverse settings, from drug court programs to residential treatment serving pregnant and postpartum women. She has supported people facing anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship difficulties, communication and family conflict, addiction, and trauma.
Her therapeutic style is strength-based and often includes moments of humor and lightness when appropriate. She views therapy as a process that should incorporate positivity, learning, and growth rather than only discomfort. Marisa uses a person-centered framework and draws from a range of clinical approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused techniques, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Narrative Therapy. She customizes interventions to match each person’s goals and needs.
Marisa believes the individual is the expert in their own life and that her role is to support progress toward meaningful goals. She currently offers evening and some weekend appointments and looks forward to helping people pursue change and resilience.
She earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver with a concentration in Family Systems and completed an Animal-Assisted Social Work certificate. While at the University of Denver she also took three psychology courses focused on military culture and treatment. During her second year of graduate study she entered a two-year post-graduate training program at the Denver Family Institute focused on marriage and family therapy, graduating from that program in February 2019.
Marisa has held roles across diverse settings, from drug court programs to residential treatment serving pregnant and postpartum women. She has supported people facing anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship difficulties, communication and family conflict, addiction, and trauma.
Her therapeutic style is strength-based and often includes moments of humor and lightness when appropriate. She views therapy as a process that should incorporate positivity, learning, and growth rather than only discomfort. Marisa uses a person-centered framework and draws from a range of clinical approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused techniques, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Narrative Therapy. She customizes interventions to match each person’s goals and needs.
Marisa believes the individual is the expert in their own life and that her role is to support progress toward meaningful goals. She currently offers evening and some weekend appointments and looks forward to helping people pursue change and resilience.
Areas of Expertise
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
AbandonmentAttachment issuesCo-morbidityCodependencyCommunication problemsControl issuesDrug and alcohol addictionFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFirst responder issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersPost-traumatic stressProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Self-harmSexual assault and abuseWomen's issues
Therapeutic Approach
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Psychodynamic Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Marisa Schaff have?
Marisa Schaff has 10 years of experience.
Is Marisa Schaff a licensed therapist?
Yes, she holds the credential LICSW. License details are WA LICSW LW61106044.
In which languages does Marisa Schaff provide therapy?
Marisa provides therapy in English.
Where is Marisa Schaff located?
She is located in Washington.
How can I work with Marisa Schaff as my therapist?
You can work with Marisa through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Marisa Schaff work with international clients?
Marisa Schaff does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Marisa Schaff cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Could Remote Therapy Be a Good Fit?
Many people wonder whether meeting with a therapist remotely can make a meaningful difference. For common concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or navigating life transitions, many individuals find online therapy to be a practical and effective option that compares well with in-person care for a broad range of needs.One key benefit is flexibility - people can connect in the format that suits them best, whether by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging. That flexibility can make it easier to fit regular sessions into a busy schedule or to continue care when circumstances change.
Therapists who offer remote services are licensed professionals, and clients have the option to look for a different fit if needed. For many, online therapy provides an accessible path to consistent support and growth.