My Name is Carissa Reese.

I believe many women have developed strongholds and coping mechanisms to survive, but true freedom only comes through salvation offered by Jesus Christ and the work He did for us on the Cross. This is where our true identity is found. Scripture tells us we are knitted together in our mother’s wombs, bringing forth His praise because each of us are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139: 13-14). No matter where we have journeyed, it is the Lord Himself who created us and tells us who we are.

I have a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Neurology from Purdue University and am finishing a Master of Arts in Biblical and Christian Counseling from Regent University. As a Christian studying the sciences and God’s Word, I have come to believe with all my mind, body, and soul that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

When the Lord told me to lay down my career in Veterinary Neurology and follow Him, He called me into a ministry of patiently encouraging and teaching hurting women their identity in Jesus through His forgiveness and grace. I have facilitated small groups for women survivors of childhood trauma, walked with women through body image challenges, and mentored others through God’s Word. I also recently became a chaplain for the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team.

I am originally from the Midwest but have lived in South East Florida for the last ten years with my best friend and husband, Michael. We have a dog and three cats. We enjoy our time growing fruits and vegetables, being outdoors, and cooking together.