She began her broadcasting career in her hometown of Phoenix, where she worked behind the scenes as an associate producer and field producer at KTVK. In 2007 Carissa began reporting at KSWT in Yuma where she covered topics including crime, border issues, public policy, and education. She also produced a cold case murder series where she worked closely with law enforcement to release critical information while telling the stories of crime survivors seeking justice. Carissa was nominated in 2008 as Associated Press Reporter of the Year. Later she won the award for 2009 Associated Press Reporter of the Year.