Marissa Bernabe, APRN-CNP, DNP, specializes in family medicine at Utica Park Clinic. Her professional areas of interest, in addition to family medicine, include cardiology and respiratory care.

Marissa’s journey into the field of medicine began with her mom. She said, “My mother has been a nurse for over 30 years. Watching her care for others was what ultimately guided me into health care. I have her to thank for my endurance to prevail in this field.”

As Marissa navigated her nursing career in departments like the emergency room to primary care, she realized she wanted to be able to provide more for her patients. “I was originally a nurse and loved the field so I naturally just wanted to do all I could for my patients, so I went back to school to become a nurse practitioner,” she said.

Her passion for helping others become the best version of themselves makes building relationships easy. Marissa said she begins by getting to know the whole person, which then helps guide her practice. She adds, “I try to relate to my patients as best I can to ensure I am providing care to more than just their physical needs but also their mental and spiritual beliefs.”

Marissa wants patients to know she makes it a priority to make each visit a comfortable and good experience. And when it comes to advice, she said, “Stick with it and you will see progress!”

Outside of work, Marissa enjoys reading and spending time with her husband and four children.