Coaching
As a professional theatre maker and arts educator with over 20 years of experience, I love providing coaching and career consultations for actors and other theatre artists. My goal is to help you approach your own work and career with compassion, bravery, and self-advocacy.
I have a MFA in Performance from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, a BA in Acting from Boise State University, and am a graduate of The School at Steppenwolf. The way I approach acting is influenced from my training in Meisner, Viewpoints, Strasberg, Linklater, Laban, and Feldenkrais techniques.
What I Offer
Career Consulting
Examples:
Applying to agencies and graduate programs
Branding and marketing
Networking
How to find/book jobs and auditions
Headshot and resume help
Demo reel feedback
Audition Coaching
Examples:
Monologue coaching for generals
Sides coaching for TV, film, theatre, and commercial auditions
Self-tape help and feedback
Monologue selection
How to present yourself at your best
Personalized Monologues
This is for clients who want a personalized monologue written exclusively for them, uniquely tailored for their use at auditions.
What I Charge
Coaching - $40 for a half hour or $70 for a full hour
Personalized Monologues - starting at $50
I believe education should be accessible, so if this is outside your budget range, contact me for sliding scale options.
You are an artist because there is something deep inside that is provoked, compelled to create.
You matter. Your voice matters.
Testimonials
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Karissa is an invaluable resource to me as an actor. Most recently I worked with her as a coach and sounding board on some grad school audition material, and she was incredibly perceptive in helping me pinpoint some key weak areas, as well as encouraging and supportive for all the things I was getting right. She has top-notch instincts, and it definitely helps that she sees 360 degrees as an actor, director, playwright and casting director. Her input is so useful and concise, she's a great communicator, and I would recommend her to anyone and everyone I know!
Jillian P.
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I've been doing this for a few years and so I've hesitated to reach out for career coaching because I feel like there is a lot of basic advice I already know. Karissa quickly realized where I was at and gave me more advanced input than what I've previously experienced with coaching. Not only was she knowledgeable, insightful, savvy, and creative in her approaches but she's also just down to Earth and makes you feel like you're her equal which is really empowering in and of itself.
Kendal R.
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It’s very rare to find a coach/mentor who not only possesses a Master degree in the arts but couples that with current professional experience as a Casting Director, Artistic Director, and Actor in Chicago. Karissa leverages her unique skill set, established theatrical relationships, and sharp eye for detail to help any level of student accomplish their goals.
Chad P.
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The knowledge Karissa provided during my career consultation was invaluable to me as a recent college graduate. Stepping into the professional world can be overwhelming, but her expertise and support has helped me move confidently forward as I begin my directing career.
Lily V.
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Karissa's insight and guidance is rooted in sincerity. Karissa taught me how to emphasize self care and self belief in an industry that functions to exploit your inner voice and trauma. She creates a space that makes everyone feel cared for and heard which brings us closer as an ensemble.
Paloma L.
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Karissa makes acting fun!
Reese Y.