Charissa Walson

Founder and Therapist

I have worked in the mental health field since 2008, serving individuals across Western Washington in diverse settings—from crisis intervention to individual counseling and group therapy. I hold licenses in Washington, Arizona, and Florida, and I am currently a PhD candidate in Clinical Sexology.

I earned my Master’s Degree in Psychology from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology. I founded Karis Collective with the hope of creating a safe and welcoming space where every person feels seen, heard, and supported through the challenges life brings. I believe each story is unique and valuable.

My clinical focus is on trauma, with a specialization in the body–mind connection. I work with individuals navigating medical trauma, disordered eating, body image issues, eating disorders, sexual, emotional, and physical abuse, and chronic health concerns. As a certified yoga instructor, I incorporate somatic awareness into my therapeutic approach, supporting clients in reconnecting with their bodies as part of the healing process.

I have advanced training in:

• Post Induction Therapy (PIT), developed by Pia Mellody and used at The Meadows, focused on treating codependency and addiction
• Somatic Experiencing, a body-based trauma therapy developed by Peter Levine
• Certified Sex Addiction Therapy (CSAT) through IITAP, with a specialization in supporting betrayed partners

My goal is to offer a holistic, compassionate understanding of the trauma cycle—recognizing how our family systems, developmental histories, and cultural contexts shape our experiences.

In addition to my clinical work, I have a strong passion for art and culture. I received a bachelor’s degree in Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design from Biola University. During that time, I lived in Europe and immersed myself in diverse cultures, traditions, and art forms. These experiences continue to inform my personal love for creativity, culture, and travel.