Charissa was born in Baytown, Texas. She moved up to Vancouver, Washington with her mother and brother as a little girl. Charissa finished high school in Vancouver and moved to Boston University where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1998. While at Boston University, Charissa was selected as the 1998 recipient of the Sir Rex Harrison Scholarship in Theatre Arts.

Charissa made her professional theatre debut as “Gail Myzlewsky” in the New Repertory Theatre production of Bill Corbet’s play entitled “The Big Slam.”

In January 1999, the girl all ready hired to play “Sophia” couldn’t make it and the show gave Charissa a call. Within hours, Charissa was playing “Sophia” on “One Life To Live.” Charissa left the role of "Sophia Pelligrino" in May 2001 and in September 2001 was hired by "Guiding Light" to play the role of "Tory."

When not working, Charissa enjoys dancing, particularly flamenco and Brazilian styles. In addition, she relaxes through yoga and various arts such as painting, drawing and pottery.

Charissa’s other roles include:

“Abigail Williams” in a production of the “The Crucible”.
“Sarah” in a production of “Children Of A Lesser God.”
“Katherine” in a production of “Taming Of The Shrew.”
“Gail Myzlewsky” in a production of “The Big Slam.”

OTHER TIDBITS:

Charissa is proficient in American Sign Language.
Charissa lives in Manhattan and is currently single.