ABOUT
Our Organization
At Mariposa Healing Alliance, we believe healing is not a luxury—it’s a right. Founded by a bilingual, Latina clinical psychologist, our nonprofit is dedicated to uplifting women and families from underserved communities. Through trauma-informed therapy, empowerment programs, and culturally grounded education, we create spaces where people can heal, grow, and reclaim their power. Whether it’s through a wellness circle, an ESL class, or individual therapy, our work is rooted in compassion, justice, and collective care.
We know that true healing happens when people feel seen, safe, and supported. That’s why every member of our team reflects the communities we serve, because representation is part of the healing process.
Mariposa means “butterfly”—a symbol of transformation, beauty, and freedom. At Mariposa Healing Alliance, we walk alongside individuals on their journey of becoming, helping them not just survive, but truly thrive.
Dr. Charissa D. Pizarro is a licensed clinical psychologist, advocate, and founder of Mariposa Healing Alliance. With deep roots in her community and lived experience as a daughter of immigrants, Dr. Pizarro created Mariposa to address the gaps she witnessed firsthand in mental health care for marginalized communities.
She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, and holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Columbia University. Currently, she is pursuing an Executive Certificate at Harvard University, furthering her commitment to leadership in mental health and social justice.
Dr. Pizarro’s personal journey of overcoming trauma, including surviving a college fire and navigating systemic racism in higher education, deeply informs her approach. These experiences ignited her passion for creating safe, affirming spaces where healing is not only possible but celebrated.
Through Mariposa Healing Alliance, Dr. Pizarro continues her life’s work of empowering individuals, families, and communities with culturally responsive care, education, and advocacy.
At Mariposa Healing Alliance, we honor each person’s story with confidentiality, compassion, and cultural humility, creating a safe, judgment-free space where healing can begin and individuals can feel truly seen and heard.
