Marissa Haugh

Every chapter of Marissa Haugh’s career reflects her belief in the importance of growth, health, and service. She has taken on responsibilities in education, healthcare, and wellness, and in each setting, she has sought to improve the lives of others. Now living in Oceanport, New Jersey, she continues her work as a fitness and nutrition coach, guiding individuals toward healthier habits and stronger lifestyles. Her academic background shaped the direction of her professional life. After completing high school, Marissa pursued a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Rhode Island. This degree allowed her to explore how people grow and adapt, especially within the family environment. 2001 she added a Certificate in Fine Arts and Foundation from Parsons’ School of Design. By 2003, she had completed a Master of Science in Child Life at Bank Street College, equipping her with the skills to support children and families in medical environments. Her career began while she was still pursuing her studies. She first gained hands-on experience as a daycare leader, then became a caseworker at Talbot Perkins Children’s Services in Brooklyn, where she supported adoption and foster care programs. She also served as Lead Camp Counselor at Epiphany Nursery School Camp, planning art and cooking activities, and overseeing classroom management. These early roles gave her experience in both education and recreation, laying the foundation for her later work. In 1998, Marissa accepted the position of Head Teacher at Trevor Day School in New York City. She managed classrooms, identified the needs of her students, and adjusted teaching strategies to support learning. After completing her graduate degree, she transitioned into hospital settings. At Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, she served as a Child Life Specialist in pediatric units, providing therapeutic interventions for children facing illnesses such as asthma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, and organ transplants. She also supported families during times of stress and uncertainty, ensuring that children received emotional care alongside medical treatment. Later, she joined Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey as an Early Intervention Developmental Specialist. In this role, she worked with infants and toddlers up to three years old who showed developmental delays. She conducted assessments, designed interventions, and partnered with families to encourage growth. Since 2001, she has also been an active member of the Child Life Council, maintaining her connection to the field and continuing her advocacy for children. In 2017, Marissa expanded her expertise into health and wellness. She earned a Certificate in Fitness and Nutrition from the Academy of Sports Medicine and soon founded FIT, FULL AND FOCUSED, her own practice in Oceanport. She now provides personalized coaching, including nutrition guidance, meal planning, and tailored fitness programs. Her approach emphasizes education, teaching clients how to make sustainable changes for long-term health rather than relying on quick solutions. Her personal dedication to fitness adds depth to her work. She has participated in CrossFit competitions, completed marathons, and tested her endurance in events like Tough Mudder and Spartan races. These experiences allow her to coach with a perspective shaped by knowledge and practice. Looking at her career, Marissa Haugh has continually chosen paths that allow her to help others. She has built a life centered on education, health, and service, from child development and healthcare to nutrition and fitness. Her story is of persistence, compassion, and the belief that guiding others toward growth can create lasting change.