ABOUT MARISA
I’m Marisa Manriquez, a Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist devoted to the art of presence, healing, and deep listening.
My practice is rooted in over 17 years of inner work—across meditation, ritual, embodiment, and folk healing—and is nourished daily by my path as a contemplative, artist, and mother.
It is my joy to support you in returning to what is whole, wise, and already within.
This work is an offering for personal and collective healing. It is rooted in interconnection, and in the dance between being and purpose. Healing is remembering what was never lost.
The Evolution of Soul Witness
Founded in 2012, Soul Witness began as a space for transformation, inquiry, and inner work. Over the years, it has grown into a sanctuary of deep listening—where you are held in presence, and invited to remember your essence.
My path has included ritual facilitation, plant medicine, women’s embodiment, and contemplative practice. Becoming a mother in 2022 deepened this path, and ultimately led me to craniosacral therapy.
Education & Training
I studied and trained with Craniosacral Therapist, Janet Evergreen, certifying in the Biodynamic Approach to Craniosacral Therapy, The Vagus System & Organs, Zapchen Somatics, and Pre and Perinatal Education.
For two years, I offered donation-based craniosacral therapy in an Appalachian community of West Virginia before formally opening my practice in Richmond, Virginia in 2025.
Degrees & Certifications
2025 —Certificate in Pre- & Perinatal Education, Riverbluff Sanctuary
2025 —The Vagus System & Organs
2025 —Zapchen Somatics
2023 —Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, Riverbluff Sanctuary
2012 —Certified Youth Mindfulness Educator, Niroga Yoga
2011 —RYT 200, Niroga Yoga
2011 —M.A. in Philosophy & Religion, Women’s Spirituality, CIIS
2006 -B.A. in International Studies, Minors: French & Anthropology, Univ. of Illinois
Apprenticeships & Advanced Skills
2014-2020 —Vipassana Meditation & Buddhist Philosophy, Spirit Rock Meditation Center
2013-2020 —Plant Medicine Apprenticeships, Peruvian Amazon
2011-2015 — Shamanic Initiations and Apprenticeship, Aymara, Mujeres de Arena, Ojo de Horus
Languages spoken: English, Spanish, French