About Marissa C. Knox, PhD
I have facilitated self-compassion programs for educators, students, therapists, healthcare professionals, and parents, and I enjoy supporting groups and individuals in applying these skills to their unique contexts. I co-created Embracing Your Life, a self-compassion program for young adults, and I contributed to the adaptation of two brief self-compassion curriculums for healthcare professionals (Self-Compassion for Healthcare Communities and Resiliency Training).
Currently, I teach a course called Mindfulness, Compassion, and the Self at the University of Texas at Austin and Applications of Mindfulness and Compassion at Purdue University.
Feel free to reach out to me with inquiries about talks, workshops, Mindful Self-Compassion programs, and other offerings.
Hi! My name is Marissa C. Knox,
and I’m so glad you’re here.
In my teaching, research, and facilitation, I focus on how we can cultivate holistic well-being and resilience through self-compassion, mindfulness, boundaries, and communication. To support healthy development, nurture meaningful relationships, and create the thriving communities the world needs, we must become more open, connected, and present.
In my teaching and facilitation, I invite students and clients to clarify and embody their values and ethics, remember their interconnected wholeness, and live with discernment and integrity. Through breath and embodiment work, reflective writing, and contemplative practices rooted in wisdom traditions, I guide people toward the grace and possibility already and always available within.
“It's never too late or too early to practice loving kindness.”
— Pema Chödrön
Testimonials
"Dr. Knox's wisdom, guidance, creativity and passion is capable of transforming the world for the better. Because of her class and presence in my life, I decided to pursue my dream of being a psychologist and dance artist, conquered my second lupus flare, and learned to manage/optimize my emotional and mental health. I want to thank this class and Dr. Knox for making me a better woman and empowering me to be the best version of myself through mindfulness and self-compassion."
— Christella
My favorite class I've ever taken. It was engaging, open, and interesting. I learned so many applicable skills and practices. A lifechanging course, for real.
— Past student
"This class made me feel safe and accepted. I have never felt more safe in a different class. I was not scared to share with the class because Dr. Knox always replies with kindness. I liked how Dr. Knox was very inclusive in her language when discussing mindfulness."
— Past student
“The content I learned from [her] class has been a major factor in changing the way that I think and speak to myself. It's transformed my life and overall perspective. I used to think that being hard on myself was the best way to get things done and accomplish my goals. I've found that being kind to myself, and doing things out of love and care for myself has been much more sustainable and honestly more effective! I'm no longer thinking "if I don't do this, I'm a failure and loser" (so mean, right?) but rather changing my thoughts to "I'm doing this because I want the best for myself, and to see myself grow positively and thrive." This has translated to not only being less judgemental towards myself, but also others- and in turn makes me more positive and understanding of humanity.”
— Vivian
"This course was so insightful! Whether or not you are entering a helping profession, anyone can take skills and practices and apply them to their lives. There is so much grace and kindness in this space, and it is a truly wonderful experience."
— Past student
“I could not have asked for a more overwhelmingly positive experience from this class. I learned so much about myself and others through the course of the semester. The small discussions in class from others who share similar ideas and beliefs is something I will take with me in life. This was my favorite class I have taken. I am so grateful for the experience and especially for Dr. Knox!”
— Abby
"My experience in Dr. Knox’s class was something I was searching for within undergrad. Dr. Knox’s class provided me with skills that have set me up with a good strategy for potentially overwhelming experiences I may have within myself and relationships in my life. Learning about having compassion for others but also compassion for yourself was just what I needed as I go into post grad life. I really loved learning about how the brain reacts during mindfulness and compassion exercises, this really does work! I’m very glad I was able to take this class because it wasn't a regurgitation of information on a test, it was something you had to experience and practice."
— Lily
Contact me for a 1:1 session
