Carissa Makowski, MS, RMFTI Winter Park Office
Carissa Makowski is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (RMFTI) in the State of Florida. She works exclusively with clients in the Orlando area in private practice at Orlando Thrive Therapy, Coaching, and Counseling at our Winter Park counseling office.
Who Carissa Works With + Carissa's Approach
Carissa's therapeutic philosophy is rooted in a person-centered approach, grounded in empathy, authenticity, and the belief that each individual possesses an innate capacity for growth, healing, and wholeness. She integrates principles of the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples and families deepen emotional connection, navigate relational challenges, and cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
Carissa believes lasting transformation begins with a deeper understanding of yourself. Through cultivating internal awareness, emotional regulation, and a greater understanding of the nervous system, clients can begin to recognize long-standing patterns, reconnect with their authentic selves, and develop more intentional ways of relating to others. Her work emphasizes creating a safe, collaborative, and compassionate therapeutic space where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences, strengthen their resilience, and embrace meaningful change.
Carissa has a particular passion for working with couples and families, helping them move beyond patterns of disconnection toward greater understanding, emotional safety, and relational harmony. She believes that healing occurs through connection and that nurturing awareness, compassion, and vulnerability creates the foundation for healthier relationships and a more integrated sense of self.
Clinical Background
Carissa is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (RMFTI) dedicated to fostering meaningful connection, emotional healing, and personal growth. She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Stetson University. She began her clinical career in a private practice in Houston, Texas, and recently relocated to Orlando, Florida, where she looks forward to continuing her work in private practice, supporting individuals, couples, and families so they can thrive.
What to Expect at Your First Session
Complete Paperwork Online
Fill out your intake forms electronically before your session, quick and easy.
Introductions & Goal Setting
Get to know your therapist and share your goals for therapy.
Personalized Therapy Plan
Your therapist will create a plan tailored to your needs, including session frequency.
Supportive, Warm Environment
Begin working immediately in a safe, welcoming space where you feel valued and understood.
Ready to begin your path toward healing? We’re here to support you.
Feeling heard and understood is an important part of therapy, but meaningful growth comes from applying what you learn along the way. At Orlando Thrive Therapy, our goal is to equip you with practical tools, healthy coping strategies, and new perspectives that help you create lasting positive change. Personal growth can take effort, but with the right guidance and support, it’s absolutely possible, and we see it happen every day.
Meet Your Thrive Therapist
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Begin Your Path to Thriving
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Start Your Journey Toward Thriving
Connect with a compassionate Orlando therapist and take the first step toward healing, clarity, and lasting emotional well-being.