A graduate of MCPHS University in Worcester, Mariessa started her career in medicine as a medical assistant prior to studying to become an advanced practitioner.

Mariessa has always appreciated learning how our daily choices can impact our health and quality of life. “This is what motivated me to pursue a sports medicine undergraduate degree, where I learned the consequences that food, body movement, and lifestyle can have on our health status,” she explains. “I decided to pursue a degree as an advanced practitioner when I realized that I could use the knowledge I learned about nutrition, exercise and lifestyle and combine it with medical advancements and clinical practice to encourage people to take charge of their health.”

According to Mariessa, the cardiovascular system is an amazingly intricate and important determinant of overall health as well as quality of life. “One of the great things about cardiology is the constant advancements and improvements in the field,” she explains. “However, it is my interest in promoting the prevention of cardiovascular problems with lifestyle interventions that really drew me to the specialty. I believe optimal patient care must include preventing disease wherever possible. I enjoy helping patients understand that they control their own health, and that there is a tremendous amount of impact they can have on their well-being just through the choices they make in everyday life.”

For Mariessa, working closely with patients on preventative health measures including proper lifestyle choices is something that she very much enjoys. “Helping people improve their cardiovascular health can help them lead a healthier and more fulfilling life, and I find that very fulfilling,” she explains.

When she is not busy helping patients Mariessa enjoys spending time with family, cooking, and watching her favorite Boston sports teams. She also loves the outdoors, including walking her dog Zeus, riding her bike, hiking, and going to the beach.