Many careers begin with a single step toward curiosity, and for Marissa Haugh, that step was taken early in life. Growing up interested in children’s health and well-being, she built an academic and professional path that combined compassion, education, and dedication. Today, living in Oceanport, New Jersey, she serves others as both a Fitness and Nutrition Coach and a Child Life Specialist, drawing on decades of study and experience.
Her early life shaped her outlook in lasting ways. Marissa was born in Athens, Greece, but her family later moved to New England, where she developed a strong interest in the growth and development of young children. By the time she entered college, she had already decided that her career would involve service to children and families. She began her higher education at the University of Rhode Island, completing a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies. This program gave her insight into human development across the lifespan and prepared her to work with families in various settings.
Her thirst for knowledge did not stop there. In 2001, she earned a Certificate in Fine Arts and Foundation from Parsons’ School of Design, highlighting her creative side. Two years later, in 2003, she completed a Master of Science in Child Life at Bank Street College. These achievements added to her academic foundation and equipped her to serve children in educational and healthcare settings.
Professionally, her journey began with hands-on work during her college years. She served as a day care leader and later became a caseworker for Talbot Perkins Children’s Services, a nonprofit in Brooklyn focused on adoption and foster care. This role gave her valuable experience in addressing the needs of children in challenging circumstances. She was also Lead Camp Counselor at Epiphany Nursery School Camp, where she created art and cooking projects for children while managing the daily rhythm of camp activities.
1998 she joined Trevor Day School in New York City as Head Teacher. In this role, she guided classroom management, identified student needs, and worked closely with families to support learning. With her graduate education complete, she moved into the medical field, serving as a Child Life Specialist at Mt. Sinai Hospital. She worked with young patients in pediatric units, offering therapeutic interventions for children facing illnesses such as cancer, asthma, cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, and transplant recovery. Her focus was on supporting not just the medical side but also the emotional and psychological needs of children and their families.
Her commitment continued at Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey, where she became an Early Intervention Developmental Specialist. There, she conducted developmental assessments and interventions for infants and toddlers who showed delays from birth to age three. This role allowed her to blend medical knowledge with family-centered care, ensuring children and parents had guidance and resources. Her continued involvement in the Child Life Council since 2001 shows her lasting dedication to this field.
By 2017, Marissa had extended her expertise to health and wellness. She obtained a Certificate in Fitness and Nutrition from the Academy of Sports Medicine and founded FIT, FULL, AND FOCUSED in Oceanport. She designs clients' personalized nutrition and fitness plans through coaching, addressing eating habits, lifestyle, and long-term goals. She emphasizes education, teaching clients about nutrition, meal planning, and healthy behaviors so they can make informed choices for themselves.
Alongside her coaching career, Marissa has been active in fitness personally. She has competed in marathons, CrossFit events, a Tough Mudder, and two Spartan races, giving her firsthand knowledge of endurance, training, and discipline. These experiences add depth to her coaching practice and connect her with clients on a personal level.
Marissa Haugh's story is one of lifelong learning and service. From her first experiences in child development to her current role as a nutrition and fitness coach, she has devoted her career to helping others live healthier, stronger, and more balanced lives. Her journey reflects a commitment to personal growth and the well-being of every individual and family she has worked with.
